March 2015

Chair Head Bursar Registrar Staffroom School Office ...the professional journal for Management & Staff Our front page pictures In this issue... ‘We Opted Back Into SATS’ 05 ~ head explains her thinking

Mental Health Initiative 07 ~ schools celebrate awards at House of Lords

Admissions Interviews 08 ~ 09 ~ how to conduct them International pianist marks Steinways arrival Teaching the Whole Child 12 Solihull School has welcomed the arrival of ~ obvious, isn’t it? three Steinway grand pianos with an exclusive Don’t be afraid to be different. performance from internationally renowned Technology Special Report 16 ~ 18 pianist Peter Donohoe. ~ have innovations improved teaching & learning? Peter, who lives in Solihull and opened the Be afraid to be the same as every other school. school’s new music department four years ago, has produced a series of CDs and performed Profile 20 ~ 21 with hundreds of orchestras all over the world, ~ in conversation with Heather Hanbury including at the BBC Proms where he played the largest of the pianos purchased by the school. Boarding Bursaries for the Disadvantaged 26 ~ 27 The accomplished pianist, who was awarded a CBE in 2010, was joined by several of Solihull ~ UK experience runs contrary to French research School’s most promising pupils, who performed a series of solos and duets. Members of staff also Staff in the Military 28 ~ 29 played, performing the premiere of a piece for ~ what services experience brings to school roles three pianos, specially composed by the school’s own Head of Academic Music, Simon Phillips. The new charities SORP 2015 34 ~ how it affects independent schools Three-storey sculpture for new Science Centre An artwork weighing over a ton and spanning Plus the three floors of Abingdon School’s new Girls perform well in science 06 Science Centre, which opens later this year, has Head addresses MPs 11 been commissioned from sculptor Matthew Changing Faces, Changing Places 14 Lane Sanderson. Intricately designed to combine art and science, the sculpture, made possible Special Needs - schools miss a real opportunity 15 through a donation from a former pupil of the Music & Drama Focus Feature 22 ~ 25 Oxfordshire school, will be the centrepiece of the new building. Buildings Focus Feature 30 ~ 31 Abingdon School’s Head, Felicity Lusk - who has Finance & Insurance Focus Feature 32 ~ 34 announced that she will retire in 2016 - said, Help get millions of children into school - free resource pack 36 “It is a very rare and very special opportunity to be able to create something truly beautiful that New Products & Services; The Digest 37 ~ 38 STRATEGY | WEB | PRINT | SEO & PPC | SOCIAL will be a legacy to the School and become part Heads Hunted 39 of Abingdon’s remarkable history. It will be an inspiration to all who see it.” Is Your School Mentioned? See page 47 for an A~Z listing Full story and another image see page 10 Contact Us; Editorial Advisory Board; Key Personnel; Subscription Offer ~ page 39

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Independent Schools Magazine 3

Independent_magazine_cover_ad_210x297.indd 1 3/6/2015 12:55:57 PM WISE woman gets - why we New top slots SATs pre-prep Not only has Assistant Head Year 12 girls who are working school Kathryn Boulton-Pratt from with the construction and civil opted back in Lockers Park School, Hertfordshire, Sheffield High School been engineering company AMEY on a has announced plans to open a interviewed on BBC TV regarding project to re-design the frontage co-ed Pre-Preparatory School in her win of the WISE (Women of the Bridlington Railway SATs have been subjected to a barrage of criticism from both the September. in Science and Engineering) Station. independent and maintained sector. They are roundly perceived as Established for over 140 years, Advisor of the year award last Mrs Boulton-Pratt spoke at Lockers Park currently offers year but she was also invited the Institute for Mechanical strait-jackets which constrain and inhibit children’s natural creativity; education for boys from the ages of to speak at the Institute for 5-13. The new purpose built Pre- Engineers as part of the as the reason why all fun and spontaneity have been taken out of Mechanical Engineers as part Preparatory School for children from ‘Engineering4Teachers’ of the ‘Engineering4Teachers’ the classroom, and instead children are uniformly drilled in SATs 4-6 will complement this with up to conference. She had the exciting conference last month (February). expectations. Beleaguered teachers claim the government has scant date facilities and dedicated staff. opportunity to talk further about The new Pre-Preparatory School Mrs Boulton-Pratt was encouraging more students regard for their professionalism and that they have been forced to swap building will take children for interviewed about her to consider careers in Science Reception, Years 1 and 2. achievement on the BBC curriculum autonomy for 1984-style regulation and standardisation. and Engineering. She spoke Headmaster Christopher Wilson Breakfast programme where she No wonder most independent schools, less constrained by government alongside Professor Patrick says: “We believe that welcoming was invited to speak about how pupils from the first year of primary Kniveton (Head of Engineering diktat, withdrew from SATs many years ago. schools can address the skills gap education allows us to offer a full at Rolls Royce and Immediate in the area of engineering, and and excellent solution for children Past President of IMechE), Jane Why then would an independent school opt back in? St Hilda’s School, particularly how to encourage and their families. We anticipate more girls to consider careers Simpson (Chief Engineer at Bushey, Hertfordshire, has chosen to publish their SATs results for the that this will cement Lockers Park in the field. She also spoke Network Rail) and Paul Dawson second year running. as a unique educational offer in our region.” about several of the projects (UK Director of Research Design Small class size has always been a that are offered to the girls at and Development at Dyson). Mrs Head, Miss Sarah Jane Styles, explains: hallmark of Lockers Park and the Sheffield High, including the Boulton-Pratt has described the Pre-Preparatory School will be the event as being very fast paced A successful independent school to ensure they are making schools. From the heated annual Go4SET Challenge and same, with a maximum class size and “having a real buzz”, where the Engineering Development will always put the needs of the excellent, personal progress in swimming pool, to the chess club of 15. Trusts scheme for involving Sixth opportunities for young people children first. St Hilda’s is a very every area. However, reflection at lunch, eagle eyed parents will Formers working with engineers within the engineering field were small prep school where every and self-evaluation are important be taking it all in. The happy, on real life projects. A current showcased and keenly discussed child is known by every member tools for any committed mutually respectful buzz of Presidential visit example of these projects is four throughout. of staff, and teachers strive to professional. Independent school purposeful children and talented create stimulating, individualised teachers, with all the privileges staff packs a far more powerful The President of Malta, Her She then met the A level politics paths of learning as a matter of this entails, must be leaders punch than dry statistics, yet it is Excellency Marie Louise Coleiro students, the Head Girl and Deputy, course: as far from any Orwellian and pioneers in their field. They naïve to think that SATs results Preca, visited Leicester High School and talked to them about being the dystopia as is possible. The Year must be seen to be delivering do not comprise a vital, objective for Girls. She met with the Y4 second female and youngest ever 6 children who completed the the best possible education, role in the information gathering Junior Debating Club, and debated President of Malta. Headmaster SATs were not ‘taught SATs’; and what better way to track of perspicacious parents. with them the motion: ‘3 year olds Mr Alan Whelpdale said, ‘This is the tests were slotted into an this than to contextualise the should be given pocket money.’ the start of a special relationship. The decision to enter the children already busy, demanding and children’s results not only against The Pre-Preparatory School welcome into SATs testing will be reviewed She listened to every girl’s opinion, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Her broad timetable full of sport, art, other prep schools, or through girls, while the existing Prep School and then took a vote. The motion Excellency, and we have discussed music and languages, as well as 11+ exam feedback from senior on an annual basis, as I consider (aged 7-13) will remain boys only. was not carried. future plans.” core academic subjects, which school heads, but against their the needs of the school, and Christopher Wilson explains: “As Pictured: The President of Malta and the Headmaster with sixth form politics students Y12 & 13. you would expect from a highly peers in the maintained sector? the needs of individual year we welcome young children to groups. I was very impressed their early school life, we are very regarded prep school. The results also provide with the changes to the English confident that we can offer the best Thus reassured that the SATs a welcome measure of curriculum two years ago; the education and outstanding facilities England cap in six nations have complemented – not accountability for prospective to both boys and girls. In addition, more rigorous testing of English Haberdashers’ despite Wales winning 13 – 0. PGCE qualification at HMSG, has “I also love the 7-a-side game and dominated – the curriculum, parents when choosing schools. our research showed that in the grammar is in line with the Monmouth Said Katie: “The women’s team been involved in the set up since she would love the chance to represent the tests have afforded us all an We all know that independent early years, families appreciate the school’s emphasis on building a School for won the World Cup in Paris this was 17-years-old. England in the World IRB Series insight into how well the school schools are judged on a opportunity to educate boys and Girls PE summer and sitting in the stands She was in the Talent Development which takes place all over the is performing on a national much broader criteria than secure foundation in this area. It girls together. From the age of 7 teacher Katie watching, I had no expectations Squad for two years until she world.” level. This is a useful tool as it straightforward league tables. is my prerogative and privilege years (Year 3) and above, we remain Mason, 24, of being involved in the next Six reached the U20 squad. Juggling teaching with professional is easy to become a little too And thank goodness for that. as an independent school Head wholly committed to a boys-only education. This is our heritage has earned her Nations. Once selected into the Elite “This is the start of a new chapter rugby playing can be demanding, introspective. There is a great Independent school parents – to keep abreast of educational first England and we believe that the older boys Performance Squad (EPS) in October, for England Women - they have just but Katie says HMSG encourages her deal of internal focus on how free from the tyranny of the theory and innovation, and cap in the RBS Women’s Six Nations. I started to believe that if I put the to fulfil her goals. thrive in this environment, both won a World Cup and the next one well the children are achieving postcode lottery of maintained to cherry pick the ideas and Fullback Katie was on the squad work in I might be rewarded with a is just around the corner in 2017, Tom Arrand, Deputy Head educationally and socially.” Girls their own potential; they are school catchments - have the strategies most in keeping with for the first game in Swansea,and chance to earn my first cap and now so my ultimate goal is to be playing at HMSG, said: “Katie is an will move after the first three years discreetly tracked and assessed liberty to choose from a wide the school’s ethos. So for now, said it feels “amazing” to have been that time has come.” in that and be in with a chance of outstanding sports coach and role to a range of local girls and co-ed selected for the national match, Katie, who is working towards her winning a second World Cup title. model to the girls.” throughout their time at school variety of high performing SATs are here to stay.” schools.

4 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 5 Girls perform Schools celebrate mental health well in science awards at House of Lords Two schools from the independent England is making important and lift the stigma still too often felt active in 23 countries around the – bucking the national trend sector had cause to celebrate inroads with schools. With a training around mental ill health.” world and with 750,000 people last month (February) when they product which equips teachers MHFA trained worldwide. Girls in independent girls’ likely to take maths A-level, 70% Derek Brewer, MCC Chief received accolades at the Mental to spot the signs and symptoms Executive & Secretary added: Mental ill health affects 1 in 4 schools perform well in science, more likely to take chemistry and Health First Aid England Awards, of common mental health issues people in the UK and is often not two and a half times as likely to “The work being led by Mental in direct contrast to data for presented to them at the House and gives them the confidence to disclosed due to the stigma that take physics. Health First Aid in this field is the UK as a whole recently of Lords. signpost the person affected to continues to be attached to it. appropriate support, Youth MHFA ground-breaking. In recent years, published by the OECD. Bucking national trends, over Bradfield College, Berkshire, received MHFA breaks down the barriers receives consistently high scores mental health has come to the Said Alun Jones, president of 55% of girls at GSA schools take the Winners’ award in the Youth that prevent people from seeking amongst teachers for its innovative fore within our sport, as we have the Girls’ Schools Association a STEM subject at A-level. Just Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) help and gives people the ability to approach to raising mental health seen numerous cricketers, who and head of St. Gabriel’s School, under two fifths take maths and category and City of London assist someone who is experiencing literacy in schools. The Youth MHFA have reached the highest levels of Berkshire: “There is a proven link just over two fifths take at least School was a close runner-up. Both mental distress. training covers topics specific to the game, be affected by mental one science, with a quarter of schools have made a significant MHFA is the mental health between poor performance in young people that include child and ill health. girls taking at least one language commitment to increasing mental equivalent of physical First Aid science and learning environments adolescent development, bullying/ “Early intervention support that A-level. health literacy within the school training and provides participants that, however unintentionally, cyber bullying, substance misuse can be provided to assist people • In physics, 13.4% of all entries community through the use of with the skills and confidence to promulgate age-old stereotypes and promoting protective factors experiencing mental distress cannot Youth MHFA training. recognise the signs and symptoms of about what girls should study and from girls come from GSA and good parenting. be underestimated and could in common mental health issues and how well they are likely to do”. schools, (above the 5.2% Bradfield College, has to date trained The Awards were presented by Lord fact be a life-saving act. Equipping effectively guide a person towards “The relative lack of stereotypical baseline), but they are awarded 78 members of staff in MHFA, with Patel of Bradford OBE who was more people to recognise these the right support services. expectations and presumptions 25.9% of the A*s and 20.5% of plans to increase this to all 130 joined by special guest, Derek Brewer signs and symptoms is highly To date over 85,500 people in the rooted in gender that girls enjoy in the A or A* grades. school employees. Bradfield College the CEO of Marylebone Cricket Club laudable and something which has UK are Mental Health First Aid independent girls’ schools means • In chemistry, girls at GSA schools Manquehue community also intends to introduce the Youth (MCC). Other schools nominated in MCC’s full support.” MHFA training to its senior pupils. trained. that they not only perform well in comprise 8.9% of entries, but the youth category included Severn An established Community Interest The core principles of MHFA science, they choose to continue they are awarded 19.8% of City of London School has trained Vale School in Gloucestershire and Company, MHFA England has settle at Downside include: spotting the signs of a to study it at A Level.” the A* s and 15.4% of A or A* 25 staff in two day Youth Mental Saffron Walden County High School trained 85,500 people in mental mental health problem, helping to Girls at Girls’ Schools Association grades. Five young women from Chile young people with a sense of Health First Aid course and by the in Essex. health life-saving skills. Much like stop the distress from getting worse (GSA) schools achieve a have set up a lay Benedictine energy, friendliness and joy. end of April 2015 will have trained Lord Patel of Bradford OBE and physical first aid, MHFA is designed • In further maths, girls at GSA and give confidence in helping Community close to Downside There is a real sense of the Holy a further 65 members of staff in the patron of MHFA England said: to equip people with the knowledge disproportionately large share of schools comprise 15.9% of the someone who is experiencing a School in Somerset. Spirit working through them half-day MHFA Lite course. and confidence to spot the signs the top grades in sciences, maths entries, but they are awarded “These awards give national problem. and languages. Compared to all 24.7% of the A* grades and They are members of the to communicate the Gospel With children’s mental health high recognition to some of the and symptoms of someone in girls nationally, they are 75% more 20.1% of the A or A*s. Manquehue Apostolic Movement, message. The practice of Lectio on the political agenda and debate many inspiring individuals and distress and offer help on a first aid More information about MHFA England and its courses can be found at which is a movement that Divina has therefore become an around the need for better mental organisations who are using MHFA basis. MHFA England is part of a www.mhfaengland.org or by emailing originates in Chile but which has established part of our school health training for teachers, MHFA to increase mental health literacy growing international movement, [email protected] always had close links with the routine and is seen to be both English Benedictine Congregation. spiritually uplifting and useful Pupils taught to hug their monsters Closure looms They bring two special evangelical by our pupils and staff. The Manchester High School for Girls Jeys, said: “This is a serious issue; Mr Alun Jones, president of the that come from failure. To Stoodley Knowle School, Devon, is scheduled to close at the end of the practices. One is Lectio Divina, benefit to the pastoral life of pupils achieve some of the best a lack of emotional resilience can Girls’ Schools Association, said: “It’s paraphrase Richard Branson, we academic year. a way of encountering Christ the school is also tangible in the public examination results in the have a huge impact on our ability great to see another GSA school must not be embarrassed by our through the prayerful reading of high quality of the relationships The Congregation of Les Filles de la Croix was founded by Madame country. However last month to deal with disappointment and taking positive steps to help girls failures, we must learn from them Scripture with shared responses to formed between our pupils, de Villeneuve in 1641, for the education of girls. Stoodley Knowle was (February), they were taught change. We have an important duty embrace the learning opportunities and start again.” what is read. The other is spiritual based on prayer and reflection, purchased by the Sisters in 1924 and since then they have dedicated how to cope with failure and to ensure that the girls we teach friendship, where communities themselves to the mission of providing girls with the same educational as well as upon all the other disappointment. are able to develop those strategies opportunities as boys. ‘discover that the true foundation many aspects of a busy school ‘Hug the Monster’ week focussed that will help them cope with any of their life together is friendship life. As we focus on the principle on improving pupils’ emotional setbacks they experience in life.” Head Fiona Hutchings said that the need for a school such as Stoodley in Christ’. of Servant Leadership within the resilience and self-esteem, teaching Mrs Jeys added: “The monster has diminished considerably. “Girls, for so long an afterthought in Downside School is inevitably school, and encourage our young them to embrace risks and not theme is memorable and one educational terms, are now afforded the same opportunities as boys in the main beneficiary of their people to consider opportunities to give up when faced with that will remind them to accept both the maintained and independent school sectors. In simple terms presence, as the St Scholastica for service as an enriching part disappointment. setbacks as potential opportunities – the original need no longer exists, and the current pupil roll reflects team supports the active work of their lives, the St Scholastic Senior School and Sixth Form girls for development. Failure and this reality. of the chaplaincy. Head Master community embodies a living gave advice to younger pupils disappointments should not stop “The decision to close has been made with a heavy heart, much prayer and Dr James Whitehead said:“What example of this principle. In about how they should respond our students from following their to disappointments, and various considerable discernment. The sisters have invested their lives in Stoodley is truly special about the an engaging, joyful way, our dreams and aspirations. Going activities including workshops and forward, ‘Hug the Monster’ week and schools like it within the Diocese. We have explored a number of contribution of the Manquehue Chilean team helps to make assemblies took place in school to will become an annual feature of options including selling the school as a going concern, becoming a Free team is the way in which they living a Christ-centred life seem raise awareness of this important Manchester High’s broad Well Being School, becoming an Academy or downsizing to a Junior school. However, communicate Gospel values to accessible and relevant”. topic. programme. It has been fantastic none of these options has provided us with a practical alternative or one Pictured: Dom Leo Maidlow Davis, Prior Administrator of Downside Abbey, pictured Deputy Head Mistress at Manchester to see how enthusiastically our girls where we can retain the vision of our Foundress”. with the St Scholastica Community High School for Girls, Mrs Helen have engaged with the campaign.”

6 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 7 Admission interviews ~ how to conduct them Oundle School, already known, but the process Interview questions posed to candidates for admission to senior schools seem to vary from of asking and recording the Northamptonshire information allows a child some straightforward general knowledge and opinion questions to other more esoteric ones, such as: Undermaster and Head time to warm up. Continuing with You are given a fan, a mirror, a key ring, a calculator and a telescope. Which one would you of Admissions, Anthony this gentle approach, they might Burrows and Head of be asked what they are reading at take to a deserted island? Why? the moment and a bit about the International Admissions, Three schools were asked to consider: story. This can provide a very useful Caitriona Redding starting point and allow several Do you aim to place interviewees under a degree of pressure or do you get more out of opportunities to tease preferences, reading habits, and enthusiasm relaxed atmosphere? from the child. From that point, Minister visits Following tea with Grace Dieu of Parliament. They were keen Do you like esoteric questions or prefer more straightforward ones? questions are intended to gauge intellectual curiosity, breadth of Manor School, Leicestershire, to learn about her life and work What are you looking for in answers, and do you frame your questions accordingly? interests, thinking skills and strength Headmaster Peter Fisher, the as well as the complexities of of character. Education Minister Nicky Morgan Parliament protocol. had an appointment with the Do you have a favourite question? Instead of asking children why they After the session Nicky Debating Society. These are their responses: At Oundle we aim to interview want to board, they might be asked commented on how the Grace all candidates prior to entry. The about the challenges they might The pupils chatted with Nicky Dieu debaters were “far better process has three strands; How face by joining a boarding school. about how politicians debate on behaved than most of the MPs well does the candidate understand These answers can be very revealing different subjects and how new that attend Prime Ministers something? Do they follow up Independent Schools May 14 135x90.pdf 1 13/05/2014 09:12:15 sport, or music or drama? Have they keeps unusual pets; one writes challenge as I see fit or draw back - not just about motivation, but laws are passed in the Houses Questions!” Cranleigh School, Surrey, an interest? Do they think for got any unusual hobbies? Are they poetry. I then push the conversation if the child is uncomfortable. In also about tolerance, flexibility and Head, Martin Reader: themselves? Unlike professional quiet and quirky? Are they the type along in a way that makes them essence, I suppose it is more craft independence. Rather than asking career recruitment for specific Since the best of character that will be the glue reveal their thinking and attitudes. whether they think they might get than fixed process. We may not industries, the relative inexperience schools are built that holds a dorm group together As the conversation progresses, I will always get it right but on the whole of the child has yet to shape or homesick, they might be asked how on trusting even though they might not be the always try to find out how often we more often than not find out define who they are – or where they would deal with homesickness relationships highest flier? they practise their instrument or those children who will fit, really their future skills may lie. The focus as everyone feels it to some degree between adults In my experience, children at this sport, what they are reading and thrive at Cranleigh and who buy therefore is on assessing potential at some time. and children, the age have either been well groomed what their thoughts on the book in to our ethos. Get that right and and how the School might develop With some children there is the interview is the first opportunity to by their Prep School and have are, how they manage time, and the atmosphere of the school is this potential to the full. Academic challenge of encouraging them to assessment enables schools to begin to develop that rapport. I now answers off-pat or have come from how they approach things which sustained and progresses and better deviate from a prepared script that gather objective comparative call our admissions process, Holistic a state school with no experience of they find difficult. I can push and performance follows. lists their successes and outlines performance data; interviews Review, to emphasise that our interviews and little confidence with future academic ambitions. In these education is not narrowly defined by give schools the opportunity to situations they might be gently adults. For all, this is high stakes C Nottingham High We also show them a few photos discover the character of a child, academic prowess and so unless it and potentially nerve wracking and urged ‘off piste’ by a seemingly and ask them to deduce what to understand how they think and M is a scholarship interview, the more School, Head, Kevin Fear: random question. What is your so if I am going to find out what is going on in the photo. In all ultimately to allow them to shine. rigorous academic assessment is favourite vegetable? If you were Y really makes a child tick, I need to In the main of this we are trying to assess There is no list of stock questions in charge of the world, would done outside the interview. If they make them at ease to progress a CM we use very potential and whether we feel other than a starter question, which are a top musician or sportsman or vegetables be compulsory? What conversation rather than a formal set straightforward MY that they would thrive in our might focus on what the candidate animal are you most like? artist that information is already on of questions. questions. school. In the main we are is interested in - books, activities, CY the form or report, so I do not have If all attempts at encouraging If it is after a holiday, I will ask what We show skills etc. Thereafter questions are looking for those that will be up conversation fail, we might redirectCMY to discover it. I am then free from a candidates adaptive and flexible to ensure the they spent their time doing; if they for a challenge and keen to make preoccupation with differentiation the discussion to what life might beK are wearing a school uniform with a aspects of their entrance paper child enjoys the experience. the most of the opportunities. like at Oundle for the child so that only. plethora of badges, I will ask them again and see if they can spot Within a thirty minute interview, There are no trick questions they feel less pressure to respond Generally speaking, what I want to what they are for and develop a errors they have made. If not the aim is to try and engage with or worry about giving the ‘correct’ arrive at is an idea of what excites picture from the chat that follows. we will perhaps show them how and we do all we can to put the a child and elicit a sense of what they are like and how they might answer. For a few overwhelmed a child about learning and living; I always ask them within the first to do a question and then ask candidates at ease. adapt to life in a boarding school. children, this will be a life-line to what we can do for the child as couple of minutes what they love them to do something similar. My favourite question is why If a child is obviously very nervous, which they will cling gratefully as a school and what the child can doing most. Even the shyest begins do they want to come to the This is so that we can assess they are set at ease with really their interview draws to a close. contribute to the community. Will to share and often sparkle: one how quickly they can pick up High School as I do want to straightforward questions that Often a bowl of sweets or other they be prepared to contribute? builds computers; another has new concepts. We ask them see our students having a drive require little thought, such as how treats sits tantalisingly on the desk Will they be a leader in classroom just won a wildlife photography about topics they have done in to join us and a sense of the old they are, where they go to and the child is offered one at the discussion and be curious and competition; another has opened school recently. opportunities which lie ahead. school, what year they are currently end of the ‘ordeal’ with a few warm challenging? Are they interested in the batting for his county; another in. Of course, this information is words of encouragement.

8 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 9 Stunning three-storey Headmistress addresses sculpture commissioned MPs in Whitehall The Headmistress of LVS Ascot Senior School, Berkshire, for new Science Centre addressed an audience of MPs in London as a speaker at A stunning artwork standing solid volumes, there are some Made from recycled zinc coated the Westminster Education Forum. 10m tall and spanning the three conceptual ‘keys to life’ within steel and enamel the artwork Learning floors of Abingdon School’s new the structure and discernable illustrates a range of scientific Christine Cunniffe was invited the Society of Heads conference. deliver feedback which although party forum which organises senior- to provide a voice from within LVS Ascot had stopped using their costly initially, proves a cost effective level seminars on public policy, and Science Centre, which opens later for those who are prepared to themes from nuclear fusion to education to many of the forum’s previous careers service because it means of providing a good service is structured to provide policymakers this year, has been commissioned find them. By identifying these the tree of life. Beginning with Centre patrons, who include the Rt Hon was very expensive, quite vague at an affordable price to parents. and implementers with a sense from sculptor Matthew Lane keys, and linking them to each Biology, on the ground floor, Kenneth Clarke, Chris Grayling, in the feedback it gave and the Students were surveyed following of the way different stakeholder other, I hope all who visit the the piece combines the millions Sanderson. Intricately designed officially Andy Burnham, Lord Baker and catch-up interviews were reported the feedback. There were many perspectives inter-relate. to combine art and science, the Science Centre may enjoy both of species on earth, the root David Blunkett. She presented her not to be too inspiring. The Thomas examples of how students have Mrs Cunniffe said: “It was a great sculpture, made possible through the visual and cerebral challenge network of a tree and lightning experiences and vision regarding Education PPA test (DISC profile) acted on this feedback including honour to be invited not just to be a donation from a former pupil, presented for years to come. It is and plasma courses. The middle open! raising the standard of education provided a very straight forward modifying their behaviour and provision for 14 – 19 year olds. improving friendships, and taking part of this forum, but also to speak will be the centrepiece of the my aim, not merely to decorate section becomes Physics with a and simple means of identifying Other speakers on the subject student characteristics and how they risks with creativity enhancing and share our beliefs here at LVS new building. a building, but to inspire many sculptural interpretation of the The new Junior School Learning included Professor Jeremy Higham react to their environment. Thomas academic achievement. The Ascot. It is testimony to our own Talking about his creation generations of pupils to take Tokamak fusion reactor and the Centre extension at The King’s from the University of Leeds and Education had many examples of programme has been so successful progressive policies and strategies up the challenges of science at top floor is Chemistry represented School, Chester, has been formally Matthew said, “Standing as Brenda Yearsley, UK School and how this information had helped a small sample of Year 11 will that the invitation was received, Abingdon.” by a canopy of diamond inspired opened. tall as a three-storey house Education Development Manager at improve behavioural and academic undertake the Emotional Intelligence and one which I was delighted by the structure of graphene. The event welcomed invited guests and over a ton in weight, this The sculpture, which is to be Siemens. issues in other schools. LVS Ascot test in April and LVS Ascot are to accept. The forum is crucial in and governors, parents, staff and training staff to deliver this at the sculpture could be considered installed by the end of the year, Matthew continued, “This Christine spoke about the work current Year 11s took the test during driving education policy forward as pupils. The pupils released 250 entirely hand-crafted totem will LVS Ascot does with Thomas their Sixth Form experience week start of next term. it provides a cohesive approach and Big! Whilst its purpose and will rise through the stairwell balloons. Author of award-winning champion the three sciences. Education. She was attracted to in the summer term of Year 10. 18 The Westminster Education Forum gives stakeholders the opportunity obvious presence will be clear, depicting Biology then Physics series Horrible Science and guest As you go up the stairs in the their product after seeing them at members of staff were trained to is an influential, impartial and cross- to engage with policymakers”. it will hold some secrets also. and finally Chemistry on each of honour Nick Arnold, officially Semi-transparent and with no of the corresponding floors. building it will reveal a fresh opened the new Learning Centre perspective as you look up and and cut the ribbon to mark this Wall Bouldering Parkour down at the artwork.” momentous event. Nick spent the Speaking about making the day in the Junior School leading donation Martin Iredale said, workshops with pupils. Challenge your children “When I joined Abingdon in The £1.5m building has added 1951, Headmaster James Cobban additional facilities for the Junior physically and mentally had just opened the School’s School which has seen increasing first dedicated science building pupil numbers in recent years. The • suitable for children of all abilities new Learning Centre has become • ideal for those who dislike team sports and so it seems most fitting for the heart of King’s redesigned • designed in conjunction with professional my family to contribute to the Parkour practitioners and climbers Junior School and features a new Science Centre, specifically • encourages discipline, science laboratory, a design by commissioning the sculpture, concentration technology workshop, art studio, a and control brilliantly conceived by Matthew learning support room, new library, Lane Sanderson and matching in new reception area and an outdoor every way Felicity Lusk’s exciting classroom. vision for the building.” Headmaster, Chris Ramsey, Matthew’s design was chosen commented, “I am delighted that from 63 applications. 63 is this building project, which has an auspicious number for the seen much hard work behind the School which was endowed by scenes in planning and designing John Roysse in 1563 on his 63rd the new centre, has finally come to fruition. It will add a new birthday and he intended the Lappset’s equipment can be designed to suit any dimension to learning for pupils site, whatever its size or situation, and tailored school to have 63 free scholars to the needs of users. We handle everything with the chance for even more in a schoolroom that was 63 from the initial project design and manufacture exciting challenges and to enhance through to installation. ft long. Current pupils from their learning experience”. the school will be involved in Contact us to find out more the creation of the sculpture in From L-R: Nick Arnold, Headmaster Chris t. 0800 881 5352 | [email protected] Ramsey, Head of Junior School Simon www.lappsetlatest.co.uk | www.lappset.co.uk workshops run by the sculptor. Malone and pupil Toby Ellis

10 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 11 Advertorial Feature Teaching the whole child? Obviously! Of form There’s nothing worse than stating the obvious and then pretending something’s a lot more deep and meaningful than it really is, in a bid and function to coin an ‘over-used’ pointless phrase and score a few brownie points, If I were an architect – and if I cars today all look very similar. had any patience I might have Yes, they’re all very efficient and writes Ben Evans, Headmaster at Edge Grove School, Hertfordshire. been – I would be much more easy to maintain, but, with few Teaching the whole child? Let’s consideration. We need to help curriculum that develops the child interested in structure and exceptions, pretty dull and boring. hope so; after all it’s not as though them to develop good manners and completely. For example, the skills design than in bricks and mortar, Every school is unique. Many we aim to teach an arm, leg or just the ability to conduct themselves of communication, listening, team writes Paul Kilvington. When it school prospectuses and other from the shoulders up. properly in a variety of scenarios. work and creativity developed comes to websites, as a designer marketing material now reflect We also want our children to be in drama, music and sport are and branding expert, I’m less Unfortunately, like many before articulate (and more importantly, confident, articulate and well- transferable to maths and English. that very effectively. And so it, ‘teaching the whole child’ can this be properly evidenced?). interested in HTML and CMS rounded individuals. should your website. Creativity (or my other personal favourite, If schools include a full programme Can you test their growing resilience than I am in positioning, values ‘holistic’) has become an over- An equal emphasis on all of extra-curricular activities to and their independence? Do they and messages. is key. used, meaningless phrase across develop risk taking, independence, get muddy and enjoy exploring the Don’t get me wrong, without a Creativity informed by a clear the education sector. One has subjects courage and spirit of adventure, outdoors, are they afraid of making brilliant CMS, a fully responsive brand strategy and unimpaired to question, what do any of Instead of latching on to pointless then they will be well on track to a mistake or are they encouraged build and intuitive navigation, by formulaic thinking and these terms actually mean? As phrases, we should be focusing making a real change to teaching to have a go, get things wrong and a site would soon collapse. templates. A designer and educators, it goes without saying on what really works; a broad, children in a more complete way learn from them? that we should be teaching a broad integrated, balanced curriculum (and not a cliché phrase in sight). But I would argue that really developer working hand in hand and engaging curriculum that with equal emphasis on the But we mustn’t forget the other Making the right changes understanding who you are will deliver in the same way as an encompasses a full spectrum of importance of all subjects. We attributes that make up a person Schools need to make changes if and what your target audience architect and builder. academic work, sport, art, music, should be following the principles too; ensuring good table manners is they are going to ‘walk the walk’ actually wants is even more In design terms your site should drama and social skills. We don’t of Professor Claxton’s Building important, as are good social skills, of providing a more complete important. However effectively need a special ‘phrase’ to tell us that. be distinctive and engaging, Learning Power to ensure we are the ability to hold a conversation, education. Making sure that you communicate, if the message look someone in the eye and have Actions speak louder than preparing children for the 21st outdoor learning is firmly embedded lacks focus and clarity, you will effectively portraying your something worthwhile to say. phrases century with traits such as resilience, (not just an add-on) is important, not get your points across. brand values in a compelling the ability to think laterally One has to question, how much PSHE, circle time, peer reading way. It should build trust with But like many other sectors we Have you ever noticed how similar and independently, to question sport, music, art, technology and and vertical mentoring all help to your audience and guide them like to follow the ‘Pied Piper’ and everything and seek answers. drama do the children actually ensure that children develop socially. most school websites look? This pay lip service to these phrases through your site, providing What we shouldn’t be doing is do? What is in place for them to Having positions of responsibility is even more apparent across regardless. It sounds good, like a reassuring experience. A to allow the terminal exams to develop socially and become more such as head boy/girl, prefects, many new responsive sites that we’re offering something rather strong brand changes customer dictate the curriculum, ethos and responsible and mature? How are house captains, eco-warriors, pupil are optimised to specific sizes and complex and cutting-edge. The perceptions. Putting your brand pace of teaching. If we slavishly we helping them to question their council reps and charity committees formats. With a myriad of mobile truth is any good school will be follow a programme of summative learning and be excited by genuine inculcate a sense of responsibility, devices to accommodate, it’s no at the heart of your site will set doing the same thing in terms assessment which doesn’t allow open-ended and non-curriculum leadership and maturity. wonder functionality dictates your school apart and help your of providing a full and engaging children the freedom to explore, related challenges? The great thing about inclusive prospects make an informed curriculum. But it’s also true that the approach. It’s exactly the take risks and make mistakes sport, music and drama is that many schools simply use this phrase Walk away from the ‘herd’ same reason why most everyday decision. how can we expect to help shape there is an expectation that all to attract parents (even though Of course, things are seldom participate. A ‘no put down’ zone they continue to allow 11+ exams a well-rounded individual who black and white and there will be should extend to every classroom and Common Entrance to dictate is adequately prepared for the schools out there who genuinely encouraging everyone to have a go, their curriculum, teaching and challenges of life? believe they are doing the right take a risk and learn from mistakes. learning ethos) i.e. using instruction Discovery, application and thing with their ‘teaching the and retention to allow pupils to communication are essential whole child’ approach. Of course, Prove it or lose it achieve success in exams by simply elements of the curriculum which they’ll probably be focused on their In summary, it’s easy to sit back and Engaging regurgitating what they have been make teaching and learning creative, pupils scoring highly in exams, VR repeat the mantra ‘we educate the told and have managed to retain in active and engaging. If children can and CAT tests but can the pupils’ whole child’ but I would ask schools Websites their short term memories. talk articulately and with confidence think on their feet? Can they cope to lose the phrase and instead prove The whole concept starts from about their understanding having with disappointment or getting it. Provide real evidence of a full, valuing prep-school education followed an exciting and engaging things wrong sometimes? Are rounded and all-encompassing for education’s sake, rather than process, they have learned in the they resilient, independent and education. Give evidence of growing viewing it as a stepping stone best way and very differently questioning? Do they really get resilience from year three to year to the senior school of choice. to simply memorising and genuine opportunities in drama, seven. Prove that they don’t allow Prep schools are responsible for regurgitating information. to make lots of noise during music the exam system to dictate their the formative years of a child’s Realigning what’s and to create messy ‘big art’ for teaching methods (past paper after education. They are laying the instance? past paper) and that their broad foundations for future academic important If schools really want to make and engaging curriculum naturally success and ensuring children We must also ensure that changes and help to shape well- prepares children for exams. Can you I D E A S acquire the knowledge and skills curriculum subjects aren’t divided rounded individuals they need to see evidence that your pupils are necessary to develop a life-long into ‘academic equals important’ walk away, rather than follow the acquiring the skills necessary to live Incisive Distinctive Engaging Absorbing Stunning Stratey Prospectuses Websites Film Photography love of learning. But we are also and ‘non-academic equals less herd. Examine their curriculum, in the 21st Century? teaching children essential social important’ categories. All subjects ask whether it does have inbuilt If you can prove all of this, you’re skills so that they learn how to treat must have parallel importance if creativity. Does it support children clearly teaching more than just an Paul Kilvington Kilvington - The School Branding Experts. kilvington.com people with kindness, respect and we are to deliver a truly rounded in becoming confident and arm or a leg. 01242 603442 07831 332904 [email protected] www.kilvington.com

12 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 13 ‘I hear all the time that Head teachers do not want to be associated with Special Needs’

Mr. Neal Bailey year. Having been at Sauveterre Mr Ceri Jones His role at Tonbridge encompassed Short sighted or blinkered? is Headmaster for the past three years, Neal has has been the day to day running of the school of Mowden formed close links with Mowden appointed and deputising for the Headmaster. Hall School, and is known by many of the Headmaster In 2013 he was seconded as Can you believe there are schools out there that will turn down £100,000 Northumber- children, parents and staff. of Caterham Executive Principal to The Marsh School with Academy in New Romney, which is a land, having Neal and his wife Nici, also a a year income, asks Mrs Lesley Farrar, the Administrator of CReSTeD. effect from maintained academy that Tonbridge succeeded Ben qualified teacher, have joined September. He will replace Mr School co-sponsors. Parents make many decisions everyday, one of the most difficult and time Beardmore-Grays who is now head the school with their two young Why is this important? Julian Thomas who will depart for In 2012, in collaboration with consuming is choosing a school for their child. As Education Professionals we at Moulsford School, Oxfordshire. children, who are enjoying being a Parents want the best for all their children, whether they be gifted musicians, Wellington College. The Sutton Trust, Fitzwilliam all know this. Neal Bailey was previously the part of the Pre-Prep department. highly intelligent or just plain fun loving. They do not want the one child Mr Jones is currently Second College, Cambridge and a So why is it that schools ignore the small problem of Specific Learning Headmaster of the Château de Neal was educated at Cothill, with an SpLD to feel singled out and, just as importantly, they do not want Master at Tonbridge School, one number of independent schools Difficulties? We all know they exist, even the lowest estimates suggest 5% of Sauveterre, a French school owned Eton and Newcastle-upon-Tyne that child’s education to suffer. of the leading boys’ independent in Kent he launched an access the population are dyslexic, with many putting the estimate far higher, and by the Cothill Educational Trust, University and teaches French and I have to confess I am biased: my working life revolves around helping day and boarding schools. He programme for disadvantaged let’s not forget dyscalculia, dyspraxia... which hosts the Year 7 children Maths as well as being keen on is a former Head of History at but academically bright Year parents to find a school for a dyslexic child. However, it seems simple to me, However, we should remember that children with one or more SpLD’s aren’t from Mowden Hall for a term each soccer, running and tennis. Caterham School and returns 9 students from non-selective any school ignoring dyslexia is ignoring a huge section of the population. aliens, they are the brothers and sisters of children who do not have an SpLD. to Caterham after ten years at maintained academies in Kent. It isn’t only the child with dyslexia they are potentially missing but their If you want to bring in all the siblings from a family ignoring SpLD’s can cost Tonbridge School. The objective is to encourage brothers and sisters too. your school income. these students to aspire to and I hear all the time that Head teachers do not want to be associated with The governing The progressive principles of Mr Jones read History at apply to high ranking universities. As the Administrator for CReSTeD (the Council for the Registration of Schools Special Needs; equally parents tell me they don’t want a Special School body for King education have been central to this Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge Teaching Dyslexic pupils) by far the most common question I am asked by environment for their child. What we can all agree on, is that both Alfred School, transformation; a philosophy which and is currently completing an Mr Jones is married to Kay Moxon MEd in Educational Leadership. and they have two daughters. parents is: Can you recommend a school suitable for both/all of my children? parents and schools need to offer all of our children the support they London, has Robert values highly and one which need. Of course Specific Learning Difficulties can be severe, we need When does 3-1 = 0? appointed is the foundation of King Alfred schools with extra facilities to offer the support in those circumstances, Robert School. Robert also firmly believes This prompted me to do a little research and I discovered the ONS statistics but for the vast majority of children they need only a little extra Lobatto as in having a broad and holistic view Sheffield High Head at Buttershaw Business and from the 2011 Household Census, specifically “Cohort Fertility, England and support, often just a few hours a week. No-one can tell me that our its new Head from September of success, not simply an exam School deputy Enterprise College. Prior to that, Wales, 2010” and discovered: independent school network can not cope with that. All CReSTeD asks 2015. Robert is currently Head driven system. Commenting on his head Mrs Nina she began her teaching career at Of women born in 1965 is that when it comes to SpLD you use our criteria as a framework and of Barnhill Community High in appointment, Robert said: Gunson has Bradford Girls’ Grammar School. then register with us, so that parents can find the right school for not • The average number of children in families is 1.91 children Hayes; Executive Head of The Dawn Moore has confirmed that been appointed Nina said “I am so excited to be just one child but all of their children. • 20% of women remain childless Barnhill Partnership Trust; Chair this will be her last academic year as Head Teacher taking on this new challenge; not of Hillingdon School’s Forum and as Head of The King Alfred School. of Wakefield only the opportunity to lead my • 13% of women have 1 child began his career teaching History at Dawn leaves in August 2015 Girls’ High School, Senior School. own school, but the school where I • 38% of women have 2 children East Barnet School. following a 30-year teaching career Mrs Gunson has been at Sheffield was a pupil and which played such • 19% of women have 3 children Robert Lobatto’s teaching at the school, with 13 years as High School for over four years. a big part in shaping me into the • 10% of women have 4 or more children experience and 8-year Headship Head. She is leaving to further her She was previously Assistant person I am today.” Thus: of those women who have had children, have been gained within inner-city interest in the mental well-being of • 83.75% are looking for or have looked for a school for more than one child. London comprehensives, where children and adolescents and plans • 36.25 are or have looked for a school for 3 or more children he has led staff through periods to work within this field on a more The Abbot of at the University of Western of significant transformation. national scale. Worth and the Australia before completing an Chairman of MA in Literature and Religion TV spin-off for charity Governors of at Newcastle University. Mr Dorothy Mrs MacGinty has served as a Worth School, McPherson taught at Sydney How good is your provision MacGinty takes Head of Biology, Head of Games, Sussex, have Grammar School from 1990-2000 announced and has been at Eton since 2000. for dyslexic pupils? up the role Boarding Housemistress and Deputy the appointment of Mr Stuart He is married to Johneen, who of Principal Head at various schools, and also McPherson as the Head Master is the Director of Studies at St We exist to help you find out, at Kilgraston, chairs the Girls’ School Association’s of Worth School from September. Mary’s Ascot, and they have four and then we tell parents. Perthshire, from Professional Development He succeeds Mr Gino Carminati children aged between 14 and 21. Easter. Committee, where she influences We offer: who is retiring after eight years. Mr McPherson will be the girls’ education at a national level. She returns to Scotland from Mr McPherson is currently House seventh Head Master of Worth For your school a visit by a dyslexia expert Hertfordshire, where she has Mrs Carol Ann Lund, Kilgraston’s Master of Penn House at Eton School, and the third lay Head been Headmistress of St. Francis’ Acting Principal, will return to her College and teacher of English. Master in the School’s 55-year For parents a free Register of schools College since 2009. role as Deputy Head. He took his Bachelor’s degree history. On the photo left to right are student Alicia Fothergill, student Annie McCandless, Viscountess Scarsdale, Paul Barrett, head teacher Denise Gould. approved for their dyslexia provision Three charities are set to benefit a two-course meal and enjoyed All the information you need is available on our from a fund-raising event held entertainment which included website: www.crested.org.uk or telephone at Derby High School which was music and a performance by 0845 601 5013 for further information New head at your school? inspired by TV show Downton Abbey. singer Emily Cox. The guest Annie McCandless, 17, came up of honour at the event was Please let us have a brief biog and image for inclusion in a future issue. There is no charge. with the idea for ‘An Evening at Viscountess Scarsdale who gave an Contact CReSTeD on 0845 601 5013 Downton’ in her role as charity after dinner talk. [email protected] www.crested.org.uk prefect at the school. More than Money raised will be shared between We’ll add them to our complimentary-copy mailing list too. Registered charity no. 1052103 50 guests wore evening dress Prince Harry’s charity Sentebale, the Council for the Registration of Schools Teaching Dyslexic Pupils and enjoyed drinks, canapés and Kariandusi Trust and Retrak Ethiopia.

14 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 15 Learning through The new 2015/16 Design & Technology Catalogue technological innovations: The iPad from Technology Supplies is now available First the video machine... then the DVD player ...then the interactive whiteboard – did these technological innovations improve teaching and learning? Any lessons for the introduction of iPads? Global Richard Brown, head of Dorset House School, Sussex, discusses... coding win This years catalogue is full of everything you need to teach There were some teachers who have different requirements and We have now had our first term of A group of Chester schoolgirls enhanced the learning experience needs. using iPads in the classroom and Design & Technology, so you has triumphed over international of their pupils by using these it has proved a real success. I feel can match inspiring teaching • Buy staff a variety of tablets that competitors in a recent computer ‘tools’ effectively and there were that the pupils are experiencing with high quality products; they can play with and ask them programming competition. others who just turned the video to research and feedback. This is a new and exciting learning easily ordered from a single A number of girls studying on and let the pupils watch whilst important as you want staff to be environment and that progress computing at The Queen’s provider. And this year you they got on with some marking! excited by this project. Send key is being made. The staff have School entered the Grok Learning can make your budget stretch Have these innovations made a staff on relevant courses and then continued to explore lots of Computer Science Challenge even further, as we’ve lowered difference to exam grades? Are they can cascade back to everyone different ‘apps’ for their subjects competition in the autumn. prices on over 2,000 products we just trying to ‘keep up with upon their return. – some of the ones that we the joneses’? Have they made For a number of weeks they in our range. • Investigate what infrastructure have explored and found useful: a difference to the learning undertook 32 increasingly you will need to incorporate iPads Revision App – the ultimate You will find even more experience in the classroom? complex tasks to test their skills into the school e.g. Wi-Fi systems revision tool, Ted, TapQuiz Maps, information and FAQs online and knowledge of the Python We have now moved on to (which ones?), Upload and Wordflex Touch Dictionary, at technologysupplies.co.uk/ coding programme as well as their the next stage where tablets, download speeds (dependent on Memrise, CoachMyVideo, problem-solving abilities. support. predominantly iPads, are the where the school is located) etc. Socrative, Lino and Padlet, Should you wish to discuss latest technological innovation to Sketchbook Pro. After leading the way for much • Make a decision on whether you of the competition against groups your needs with our Customer be introduced into schools. It is want a ‘bring you own device’ Finally, I would suggest that of pupils from as far afield as Support Team, we are happy important, however, that schools (BYOD), purchase sets of 20 to anyone that is interested in Australia and Hong Kong, five girls to help with any enquiry, on are very careful about how they be signed out by staff, or pupils using this technology in the eventually all finished joint first. introduce this technology into purchase a particular tablet (at classroom should read, ‘Learning 0845 567 0000. The Queen’s School’s Head of their classrooms; I have seen what age?). Be careful not to in a Digitalized Age – plugged Computing Damian McKeown too many schools with iPads forget the parents in this process in, turned on, totally engaged?’ and tablets lying unused in the said: “These sorts of competitions especially if they have to purchase (edited by Lawrence Burke 2014). back on the classroom with are a fantastic way for us to the iPads – you will need to There are a variety of topics ® teachers unwilling to embrace this gauge our pupils’ ability from an communicate the benefits of this that are considered in this book technology in their lessons. international perspective – which technology. ranging from ‘blended learning’, is ultimately who they will be At Dorset House, I was really keen • Once you have made a decision ‘iPad therefore ilearn’, ‘key NEW competing with for those top to explore the benefits of the iPad for the school – think about challenges in BYOD teaching university placements and jobs. before we spent any of our limited security, damage prevention, and learning’, ‘the future is I am obviously therefore very IT budget. I was also clear about insurance etc. now, the future is flat’, ‘overuse pleased with this result!” the process that I would follow to • The final stage is ensuring on child sensory development’ Design & Technology ensure a sensible and effective roll that the iPads are used in the and ‘accessible technologies for out of this technology: classroom and that parents have students with learning difficulties’. • Visit other schools that use this a chance to see them in action. Overall, at Dorset House, we have Catalogue 2015-2016 technology – iPads vs chrome Use Inset days for further CPD for embraced this technology as a Winners! books vs other tablets. Senior staff, share best practise and be ‘tool’ for teaching and learning Sheffield High IT staff and students OVER 2,000 PRICE REDUCTIONS schools and prep schools may excited by this new technology but not a replacement. came back as winners from the GDST (Girls’ Day School Trust) NEW STEM SECTION Digital Leaders Conference. 650 NEW EXCITING PRODUCTS Think before you post! Six students (from KS2 – KS5) & three staff took part in a 16 PROJECT PLANS New large-scale research about safe internet use by your age about keeping safe online?’, the survey received day of challenge, creativity and education charity Tablets for Schools shows UK teenage often detailed responses from over 4,700 secondary collaboration at South Hampstead and primary school children warning their peers to “avoid school pupils aged 11-18 and 700 primary school pupils School, London. The brief was to dodgy apps”, “keep it real” and “think before you post”. aged 7-11. Among the Top 10 tips for fellow surfers develop an idea for a new digital The Jan/Feb 2015 survey asked 7,443 pupils about their they advise peers to be realistic about possible internet technology product or service. NOW AVAILABLE typical internet behaviour, the impact of school tablet use addiction and to treat others “as you would offline”. Their idea was for a dream pillow to on their choices, internet privacy knowledge and, in a sub- When asked about the impact of regular tablet use at sample of 5,410 children, their most pressing online safety school on typical surfing behaviour, on knowledge about capture dreams, allow them to be CAD/CAM – MATERIALS – ELECTRONICS – MACHINE TOOLS – TEXTILES – FOOD TECHNOLOGY – STEM – PRIMARY advice to fellow home and school surfers. privacy and on reactions to upsetting online behaviour watched back, shared with friends Against a backdrop of half of secondary pupils and or discoveries, the wider research showed clear benefits, through social media or even have over a quarter of primary pupils admitting they have both in behaviour and awareness. Using a one-to-one analysed by psychologists! REQUEST YOUR COPY TODAY communicated with people they don’t know when using tablet at school as well as home increases by 8% the They have won a prize of a two social media, our young tech generation has firm views likelihood of secondary pupils telling somebody about day staff and student journalism WEB EMAIL CALL about using the internet safely. In response to the open online material or behaviour that has concerned, upset workshop with Discovery Education CALL WEBtechnologysupplies.co.ukCALLEMAIL WEB POST [email protected] POST FAX CALL0845 567 0000WEB EMAIL POST FAX question ‘what advice would you give to other people or frightened them. in London.

16 Technology Technology 17 Embracing technology and iPads ~ conference for teachers Members of the Science Department at Bolton School Boys’ Division were delighted to welcome teaching colleagues from across the North to an E-Learning Conference for the North East and North West Standing Committee for Science (NENWSCS). Teachers at Bolton School shared their experience and wisdom as they spoke about how the Science Department has embraced technology and iPad use by all students. Headmaster Mr Philip Britton, time and there is a cost to bear! teachers running workshops and used in their classroom. He also himself a Physics teacher, opened However, many of the concerns talks throughout the conference spoke about iBooks where you can the conference by explaining how that had worried people pre-roll out also considered alternative devices; zoom in on an image, watch a Bolton School had come to adopt had proven unfounded, including they showed attendees other apps movie or animation, find something mobile technology and e-learning. children playing computer games which work on android devices as interesting and highlight it, add He reminded the audience that there and never exercising, disruption to well, proving that these techniques a note to the text, find out what is a difference between trendiness households and the “social media and methods of working can be the “study” function offers, browse and trends and that, in his view, beast”. transferred across for use on all the iTunes store and find a book CELEBRATING OUR “e-learning will happen”. Having tablets. TH Technology and apps are merely that may be useful. The posting 50 BIRTHDAY contemplated it for a while, it was tools for learning, the Headmaster The focus throughout the day was of lessons on iTunes means pupils Enquire for your next tour to whilst sat on a rock in the North explained. Notability is the modern on how technology can enhance the can catch up on missed work, it Yorkshire Moors during the Easter be in with a chance of winning day equivalent of a jotter and file, experience of pupils. allows for differentiation as well as vacation of 2011, he decided it was one of three golden tickets. iTunes U is the former textbook and additional and extension work. something that the school simply Dr Kristy Turner spoke about handout, Showbie is the pigeonhole Miss Crowther spoke about the apps * Terms & conditions apply must do. Having secured Governing “flipping classrooms” with 14-16 and One Drive, the locker. He that she found most useful. For Body sign-off a year later, iPads were year olds, explaining how this inverts highlighted other key apps that have her, the OneDrive app is the best then gradually deployed to all pupils the traditional classroom, so that helped teachers make a difference, way of transferring files to your from the Infant School to the Sixth note taking and extensive teacher including Socrative, Educreations iPad. DropBox she found good for Form. Now they are an integral part talk is removed from the classroom and Explain Everything. transferring files and she told how of learning for over 2,000 pupils and is replaced by note taking by some staff have set up shared folders throughout the campus. There followed further presentations students pre- and post-lesson. and workshops from Science Pupils can then enjoy more time in with students or members of their The Head said one of BECTA’s teachers who shared their first-hand class focusing on experiments and department to share resources. She maxims had been to ask “what experience of e-learning and offered practical activities, whilst filming and currently accesses individual files learning can be achieved that is lots of practical tips. Students also making notes at home, which help through WebDav but the School impossible or very difficult to do consolidate their learning. These will shortly move to Cloud Storage. short films can then be referenced She demonstrated the Showbie app, during revision periods. Often the which allows teachers to directly School will make the video and write on students’ work when pupils write the notes on the video. marking or through using text boxes. Dr Turner, who also works at the Larger items such as Chemistry University of Manchester, said it had revision material can be made public been a hugely positive experience or private via iTunes U. The one app and felt that the note making at that she “could not live without” home involves more effort on the is iDoceo – a great organiser and part of the student than merely mark book. Many teachers, she said, found Keynote was a good taking notes in class. New for 2015 app for delivering presentations. Mr Teasdale shared his knowledge Notability allows students to work on how best to use iPads to Out now Hong on worksheets (PDFs work best) and enhance self-supported learning. then to send their work back to the He explained how to create courses Kong & and upload them using iTunes U teacher. YOUTH MUSIC talked about their experience and with another device?” and he said and two powerful apps - Explain Dr Kristy Turner offered a China much of their work was showcased this was something that teachers Everything and Educreations. He practical workshop showing how

to the audience. 2015/16 at the School are still very mindful said that iPads encourage students tablet technology can be used BROCHURE! of. Whilst Mr Britton felt the The E-Learning Conference was to think creatively about ways of in Chemistry. Utilising the tablet Featuring a wealth of international performance opportunities. introduction of e-learning had been organised by Mr Mark Ormerod, demonstrating their knowledge, camera and the RGB camera app she an enormous success, he did point Head of Physics in the Boys’ including through text, hand conducted research in colorimetry. out that there would be hurdles to Division, who had arranged for annotations, videos, images and She explained how the tablet app Start talking to our specialist team on 01332 347 828 overcome, the first of which is to each delegate to be given an iPad multiple slides. He encouraged the offers a viable alternative to buying to see how a tailor-made concert tour could work for your school. ensure that the School’s Wireless for the day so that they could use group to think about the ways in a colorimeter for the department, system works – this can take the technology first hand. However, which they could see iPads being which can cost around £100. • 18 Technology rayburntours.com [email protected] & Technology 19

Independent Schools Magazine – Concert Tours.indd 1 06/03/2015 11:42:40 Heather Hanbury has been Head of Lady Eleanor Holles School, Middlesex, since last September. She was previously Head at Wimbledon High School. ProfileIn conversation with Heather Hanbury

Born: 1960 You entered teaching in your Innovation goes beyond the traditional ground for any hints of parental dissatisfaction young people leave school without having The things you list here are very thirties, having previously worked activities of teaching and learning in a and counteract it before it runs rampant? It learnt about consent or discussing what is important aspects of a Head’s job Married: Roland, no children Q in management consultancy and A school. What is it that makes coming seems that reliance on the traditional melee of ‘good’ or ‘bad’ in a relationship”. Should Sex and A and cannot be ignored or, in most Schools and University Attended: voluntary-sector fund raising. Who, or what, into school every day a rewarding, stimulating Parents’ Evenings is waning. Relationships Education be made compulsory instances, delegated to others. So, to avoid the Princess Gardens School, Finaghy inspired you to join the teaching profession? and enjoyable experience for everyone: students, It is important to be open to parental in UK schools as some have suggested? How essentials getting squeezed out, I surround myself teachers and support staff alike? This means can schools measure the success or otherwise Edinburgh University I left school and university convinced comment and to listen to concerns or with senior colleagues whose job it is to keep that I certainly did not wish to reviewing all aspects of LEH’s day-to-day activities. complaints with an open mind. It is of their current programmes? their eye very firmly in these areas, and to keep Wolfson College, Cambridge No school succeeds by continuing to do the same A me informed. become a teacher. In 1995 I was human nature to resist anyone who criticises you This gives me grave cause for concern thing, even when this ‘thing’ is very successful. Institute of Education, A equally convinced that I didn’t want to continue or your school, but I try very hard to bite my tongue and we need to make sure that I teach all the Year 7 classes for half a term each. London University in business: I was seeking a career which would We have just begun a major strategic planning and listen carefully: even if I don’t agree entirely, Sex and Relationships Education A I chose Year 7 because it is important that I get a they may be making a point which it would be wise keeps up-to-date with issues which face today’s First job: 1986, Planning, give me enjoyment and satisfaction; something review by asking the girls and the staff what they to which I could commit years of energy and think will improve LEH yet further. Their ideas will to notice. It is also important that parents realise teenagers. SRE should be compulsory, but it must chance to get to know the girls as they arrive, and Research and Systems enthusiasm. An old friend, herself a teacher, feed into all our decision-making over the next few that, just because I listen, doesn’t mean I will do (or also be good and well-delivered, and with a focus that they get to know me – and also because this First management job: convinced me that teaching would tick all those years, and I think this in itself is innovative. will be able to do) what they have asked, and this in on relationships more than on sex. After all, ideally is where I think I will do least damage! 1991, Senior consultant, Touche boxes and be hugely rewarding. And she was right! itself can be a cause of dissatisfaction. we would have the relationship first. If we focus On the curriculum front, and in common with on respect and equality, and on the importance of Much debate of late about the Ross Management Consultants, all schools, we are also considering the range Part of your time in management Increased incidence of eating each of these at the heart of a relationship, then changes to GCSEs and A-levels, and of languages we offer, how to shift from ICT to First job in education: 1996, consultancy involved travelling disorders and other mental health there is less chance of either party forcing their Q the scrapping of AS levels. Have you computing, and how to develop further our delivery Geography Teacher, Blackheath to Japan on behalf of EU trade Q issues amongst pupils are presenting will on the other. found the resulting uncertainties have unsettled Q of STEM subjects. High School GDST negotiations. This must have given you a new demands on school staff. Some schools your girls and staff? Do you anticipate a greater fascinating insight into how global business is now employ dedicated counsellors to spot LEHS girls are encouraged to ‘become desire for qualifications outside government The original LEHS charitable foundation Appointed to current job: 2014 conducted. How can schools best prepare their and address such issues before they become women of integrity and responsible influence? now owns the buildings and land members of society’. In a media- pupils for the challenges and realities of the serious problems. How is the LEHS pastoral team Q I have been working hard with LEH Favourite piece of music: I find from which the school operates, and Q responding to these challenges? dominated world where vulgarity, selfishness, commercial world? senior and middle managers to it impossible to select from a LEHS itself runs as a charitable company limited and rudeness thrive and being a ‘celebrity’ We have a school counsellor at LEH, prevent anyone feeling unsettled by long list which includes Mozart’s Global business has changed a lot since by guarantee. What benefits have such a move seems so alluring, how do you go about this A and a school nurse, as well as a strong, these changes, and certainly it should not worry Clarinet Concerto, ‘Fly me to the the early 1990s, when I worked for the delivered? What have you made of the renewed encouragement without appearing out-of-date? many-layered pastoral team. We parents and students. We are making detailed Moon’ sung by Frank Sinatra, and EU. I wouldn’t dare to imagine what charitable-status debate prompted by the recent A ‘Twas ever thus in the world of A all rely on girls, parents and each other to notice plans for next year and beyond, and students and it will be like 10, 20, 30 years from now. However, suggestion from Labour’s Tristram Hunt that ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen. education! I refer back to my earlier there are two really valuable things we can instil business rate relief be removed from charitable things. I have in the past worked with senior parents can trust us to ensure that the teaching answer on preparing students for the Favourite food: in our young people to help prepare them for any independent schools unless they fulfil certain colleagues to develop extremely strong pastoral A and learning, and the exam preparation, will world of global commerce and business and add a Potatoes – so versatile! future career: criteria for supporting state sector schools? processes which supported the girls extremely well continue at its current high standard. Change at times of stress. Where LEH’s processes can be third idea: appropriate pride in real achievement. is something which all schools and all teachers LEH has strong links with its We are always keen to congratulate and reward Favourite drink: Flexibility: grab opportunities as they arise; don’t strengthened, they will be. are used to, and we are skilled at managing this, neighbouring schools, most of which those in school who have achieved success Fresh orange juice (can’t start my imagine that your first job will define your career however irritating it may all be! are in the maintained sector, through At the heart of all of this is trust. Girls must trust day without one) forever. Every job you take will enable you to learn A across as wide a variety of endeavour as we can. an Independent State School Partnership (ISSP). their teachers to do the right thing: to tell the right Ensuring that our congratulations are always and more and develop your skills in different directions, Rather than seeing an increase in qualifications Favourite holiday destination: I’ve These links thrive because they benefit all parties; people, take the right action and really make a entirely well-deserved will at least model good don’t close doors on yourself, keep on learning. which are outside government influence, I would this type of mutually supportive link is more difference to help them or their friend. Parents behaviour. The role of assembly in today’s schools never been to the same place twice, like to see a decrease in qualifications altogether. Resilience: things don’t always work out as you valuable and long-lasting than anything enforced must trust the school if it ever expresses concerns is just as important as it ever was. but my favourite holiday activity is How much more interesting life and work in hope but this won’t matter as long as you take from above. We come up with our own ideas for about their child: I would rather offend or upset going on safari school would be if we could focus on learning, disappointment on the chin and don’t give up. working together to support students and staff parents and be proved wrong, than fear speaking And I would remind readers (if they needed Favourite leisure pastime: Schools can do a great deal to reduce fear of failure across all the schools. Last term we hosted a Model to them in the first place and thus fail to support reminding!) that it is NOT the role of education to and enjoyment of learning, for four or five years Playing bridge and thus build resilience, along with confidence United Nations Conference to introduce all the their child. solve all the problems of the world. before having to resort to a utilitarian focus on and determination. schools in our local ISSP to the MUN concept. exam results. Favourite TV or radio programme/ Over many years we have run joint exam revision Staying on a pastoral theme, Lucy Heads are expected to be team series: ‘The Hour’ is the best series Lady Eleanor Holles established the courses, music competitions, sports activities and Emmerson, Coordinator of the Sex leaders, marketeers, HR managers, If a new head asked you for a few words of advice on his or her first day I’ve seen in a long time, and I am school for girls which bears her name in CCF, to name but a few activities. Q Education Forum recently said that Q public ambassadors for the currently enjoying ‘Fortitude’ Q 1710, in the heart of London. Over the “new research shows just how widespread independent sector...the list goes on and on. Do Q in the job, what would you say? next century, pioneering teachers at LEHS helped Given that parental recommendation is experiences of relationship abuse are for young the basic essentials of teaching and learning tend Suggested epitaph: transform the education of young women. In what the most powerful marketing tool of all, people and the disproportionate impact on to get squeezed out? Do you still find time to Visibility, visibility, visibility. She made us laugh ways are you innovating still? Q how can schools keep their ear to the girls and young women. We know that many teach your subject Geography? A 20 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 21 Les Miserables High note for stuns audiences school choir In a school where music marks During their time in London the the beginning of every day Choir also sang Solemn Mass during morning Chapel, Barnard at the church of Our Most Holy Castle School, Durham, has Redeemer in Clerkenwell. The been awash with music recently, choir was accompanied on the most notably at St Paul’s organ by Keith Brown, Director Cathedral. The School’s Chapel of Music at the John Lyon School Pumping up the and Chamber Choir were thrilled in Harrow. and honoured when they were The St Paul’s event came shortly musical magic invited to take Evensong at one after an evening’s concert at Young singers from Wisbech Grammar School, Cambridgeshire, of the most prestigious venues in the Gala Theatre in Durham Superstars preparatory school have helped to swell the sound of a mammoth choir London – and the UK. where there were performances at London’s O2 Arena. A cast of more than 50 pupils from the audience in the action and the There were representatives from from every area of music within Senior pupils at Magdalene House Preparatory School were among Dauntsey’s School, Wiltshire, has anguish of the characters. throughout the age range at the School. There were seventy 7,000 boys and girls from around the nation performing in one of the successfully staged “Jesus Christ the Prep and Senior School, the performers from the Prep School Behind the scenes, the cast was Pupils from two Oxfordshire “Many Congratulations to largest school choir concerts in the world at Young Voices 2015, and Superstar”, arguably the most youngest pupil being eight years and sixty from the Senior School. supported by the School’s symphony schools - Abingdon and St. everyone, what talent.” the 36-strong Wisbech choir pitched into an eclectic mix of melodies famous rock opera of all time. With old. There was music from the wind orchestra, rock band and back-stage Helen’s - performed the smash- Amongst other comments on ranging from The Beatles to Andrew Lloyd Webber. lyrics by Tim Rice and music by hit musical Les Miserables Staff and Students are band, string band, brass band crew with 47 more pupils making an Twitter - The annual Young Voices event involves children from across Britain Andrew Lloyd Webber, this ground- over three nights to capacity intertwined in the Choir; and of course singing from the essential contribution to the success “Les formidables! Bravissimi” performing in arenas around the country, including London, Birmingham, breaking, seminal production rehearsals, practice and choir. of the show. audiences, receiving wide Manchester and Sheffield, and the Young Voices Foundation aims to follows the story of the last seven “Had the privilege of seeing acclaim and standing ovations development are constant. The Barnard Castle Prep School, inspire a love of music as well as having raised over £1 million for children’s days in the life of Jesus of Nazareth Rikki Jackson, Director of Les Mis at Abingdon last night each night. Audience members forty-eight strong Choir led the which is where many of the charities in the concerts already staged. through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Drama at Dauntsey’s School - absolutely amazing - worthy regular evening worship in the students acquire their initial commented on the outstanding The preparatory school’s director of music, Marie Cunningham, said the said: “Our production of ‘Jesus of a West End production. cathedral for over five hundred interest in music, recently Over five nights, an energetic and talent on show, and the raw pupils joined in the event because it was a great opportunity to step up on Christ Superstar’ was one of Tremendous talent.” people. In addition to the set announced the building of its dedicated group of pupils from emotion with which the company to a bigger stage at one of the United Kingdom’s biggest indoor venues. Year Four to Year Ten presented the highlights of the year. The told the highly intense story of Members of the audience: psalms and responses, the Choir own dedicated Music School. The sang a setting of the Magnificat facilities and focus upon music an intense, gritty and convincing students thoroughly engaged with Jean Valjean. “I was lucky enough to see Les interpretation of this challenging the less than traditional staging of Mis at Abingdon last night. and Nunc Dimittis by Herbert across both Schools are evolving The show received incredible musical. The contemporary setting the show and it was a testament If you can go, do, it was Brewer and an anthem by Joseph rapidly. feedback - Twitter was buzzing and imaginative staging ‘in the to all that audiences were moved phenomenal.” Haydn, Insanae et vanae curae. Headmaster, Mr Alan Stevens with comments from people in round’ created an up-close and and impressed by what they saw Director of Music, Mr Mark said “Barnard Castle School awe of the “West End quality” of “Staggeringly brilliant” personal experience, immersing each night.” Mawhinney said “Our School has long had a fine tradition of the production. Celebrated actor “Wow, wow, wow and wow Choir are extremely fortunate Choral music, but the Durham Christopher Biggins tweeted. again!” to regularly perform in notable and St Paul’s events have taken On the razzle venues in the North of England the School to a new level of including Durham and York excellence and we are extremely Kent College Pembury was of Tom Stoppard’s On The Razzle Team effort Cathedrals, however St Paul’s has proud of all of our musicians. transported from a cold English farce had all the wit and panache The spring musical and dramatic production of Annie at St Mary’s been the pinnacle. I am delighted The talent that is coming For all your winter, to summer in Vienna at to banish the winter blues. School, Cambridge involved a total of 71 cast members and 56 for the members of our Choir to through from the Prep School the start of the 20th century. The plot revolves around the students backstage, plus 10 students in the band. have had that opportunity – it is ensures that our standards will music education With specially designed sets, the chase of two naughty grocer’s something to treasure for the rest only further improve over the most elaborate the school has equipment assistants who, following their of your life.” coming years”. & performance seen for many years, beautiful master’s binge with a new Into the breach... Edwardian costumes and a cast mistress, escape to Vienna on An aspiring young Trent College, Matthew found himself preparing of over actresses, this production a spree. The complexities of Music Stands, Nottinghamshire, musician is music to accompany the choir FREEPHONE Lights & Accessories Stoppard’s script were handled Music Folders proving the old adage if you’re and congregation at short notice, masterfully by the gifted cast 0800 072 7799 Music Chairs & good enough you’re old enough taking it all in his stride. He also Accessories who ensured that the audiences to join the Instrument & Sheet after stepping into the breach to proved an invaluable guide to Music Storage were left roaring with laughter. education discount play the organ at Derby Cathedral other organists who helped out, Conductor’s It was clear that the cast and crew programme and Equipment after the cathedral’s professional including the cathedral’s new Staging & Risers had dedicated a lot of hard work save money on Assistant Organist broke his arm. Director of Music. Theatre Products to the production, alongside the your purchases! Acoustic Products direction from Kent College staff. Trent College Sixth Form and But although Matthew’s current Special recognition and thanks to Derby Cathedral Organ Scholar role is only temporary, he has the school’s Head of Drama, Nigel Matthew Gibson, 17, has grasped the opportunity with Ashton who designed and sourced assumed extra responsibilities as both hands and demonstrated his the set, as well as producing and regular organist, Tom Corfield, reliability and readiness for such www.blackcatmusic.co.uk directing the show. recovers from his injury. a prominent role in the future.

22 Music & Drama Music & Drama 23 independent schools mag Ad 90x135mm MAY11.indd 1 6/5/11 13:08:41 The Wizard of Oz The Scarborough College, Independent Theatre Consultants Yorkshire, production of this to Schools and Colleges for over 30 Years family show went off with a bang and was just the thing to brighten up a gloomy February evening. The College began with a matinee performance for local schools and were delighted to Blood Brothers welcome East Ayton, Seamer Girls in the Senior School at Saint production and many have said it and Irton, St Martin’s C of Martin’s School, West Midlands, was the best show they have staged E, Wheatcroft, Bempton and Prisoners praise hard- have performed Willy Russell’s iconic so far. They enjoyed exploring the Barrowcliff. All the children were play “Blood Brothers”. For three powerful and deep characters of provided with a flag for the hitting play by pupils evenings the girls from Years 7 to “Blood Brothers” and performing occasion. Upper Sixth captivated the audience such a gritty British play. A play about restorative justice meeting. The Blundell’s students with their portrayal of the story of Over seventy students aged 7 Miss Nicola Edgar, Head of devised and performed by three spent many hours researching the twins separated at birth. The cast to 18 participated, either on or Saint Martin’s said “Our talented Blundell’s School, Devon, pupils subject, looking at past cases and put their unique stamp on the play behind the stage and such was actors have moved us with their at HM Prison Channings Wood interviewing a prisoner serving a and divided the roles of the main the range of talent, some roles arts staff at the College, wonderful interpretation of “Blood was openly praised by prisoners life sentence at HMP Channings characters, to allow more girls to were played by different people. Bee Galway (director), Sarah in the audience. The A2 Devised Wood, a Category C men’s prison perform them across all age groups. Brothers” under the direction of our Hammond (choreography) were inspirational Head of Drama Mrs New Builds Drama students - Cameron near Newton Abbot in Devon. The school production The Performing Arts centre at Saint assisted by staff from the English Stafford. Well done girls - this play Renovations Falinski, Luke Ricketts and Rory Amongst the positive comments represents the most complex and Martin’s School was transformed in Department and, of course, is not an easy one to perform and Thomas - performed their play about the performance was one demanding school event of the to a thrust performance space which Conversions your portrayal was most credible.” ‘Crying For You’ to an invited from a prisoner who said that it Scarborough College calendar the Musical Director, Rebecca challenged and stretched the actors Upgrades audience including 35 prisoners had given him a reality check and involving as it does the good Leeson and her assistant, Martin and technical crew. This created a Mrs Jane Parker, Deputy Head Drama Studios who are currently serving their had motivated him to change his efforts of students, staff and Richardson. It is a tribute to dynamic performance space into said “I was overwhelmed by the sentences on The Recovery life and to stay on track when the many parents who make everyone that the audience the auditorium, with the audience absorbing performance. Such Recording Studios Community and five prisoners he gets out of prison. One of costumes, paint sets and organise appreciated such an enjoyable on three sides. A quarter of all the impressive characterisation from Concert Facilities serving life sentences. the most important indicators of refreshments. The performing and professional show. Senior School were involved in the every one of the cast.” Dance Studios Based on a true story, the play the impact that the performance Theatres was about 14 year old Jacob had was the number of prisoners White who is murdered in a who wanted to stay behind to Let us visit f.o.c. to London Park by Michael Stevens, ask more questions, talk to the see how we can help a boy from a rival school. Jacob’s cast and speak to staff about you achieve your grieving father Graham is given restorative justice. The project practice rooms requirements the opportunity to meet his son’s was organised by Blundell’s, Sound-isolating education > home > recording murderer in prison to try and get HMP Channings Wood, EDP Drug some answers to the questions and Alcohol Services and Make he has. Simon Hughes is the Amends, a project run by Torbay Theatretech offer the practitioner who facilitates this District Council. Our sound-isolating following services: Pictured: Restorative justice practitioner and prisoner: the tense moment when practitioner Simon Hughes (played by Rory Thomas) talks to prisoner Michael Stevens Music Practice Rooms Architectural Design (played by Cameron Falinski) about the possibility of meeting the father of his victim. enable musicians to Theatre Systems Design rehearse in controlled Electrical Design Boarding comedy conditions that limit Mechanical Design A group of twenty Lower School impressive, given the age of the noise escape to the Stage Lighting pupils from Dauntsey’s School, cast and Libby did a wonderful adjacent areas. Built Audio and Video Wiltshire, is celebrating a successful job in directing the production of this very entertaining play. The on a modular design, Rigging production of “Daisy Pulls it Off”. Under the direction and leadership inspired setting, tremendous lead the practice rooms can Fixed and Mobile Seating of Sixth Former Libby Hollingshead, performances and fast moving be adjusted to fit the action ensured that audiences the School staged three space available. performances of this comedy about were treated to a great night of life in a 1920s English boarding entertainment.” School. The Lower School boarding house, The Manor, is an impressive The White Barn • Grayswood Road Victorian mansion which provided Get in touch Grayswood • Haslemere • Surrey • GU27 2DJ the perfect setting for the play. Telephone: 0844 846 9740 Tel: 01428 651 488 • Email: [email protected] Rikki Jackson, Dauntsey’s School www.musicpracticerooms.com www.theatretech.net Director of Drama said, “The standard of performance was very

24 Music & Drama Music & Drama 25 Boarding bursaries explored Researchers The UK experience... schools have been unrelentingly others) an improved academic themselves. We regularly bring them to see what they can achieve. enthusiastic about SpringBoard. experience, broadened horizons together parents who share their The ripple effect is significant. We at the springboard to success The boarding sector faces many and aspirations, and greater understanding and experience draw them all together each year in with those parents who are new to an uplifting fellowship event. Last University The SpringBoard Bursary Foundation difficulties, but the desire to help confidence and resilience. those, for whom life has dealt a the concept of boarding; this has year over 100 people were treated of Warwick has now been in existence for two • There are promising signs that difficult hand, by offering a safe and allowed us to develop a collective to an inspirational address by one busy and productive years, writes impacts are ‘rippling out’ to the have nurturing environment, unites Heads understanding which informs our of the Advisory Board members, Ian Davenport home communities of SpringBoard suggested that less and governing bodies alike. Since pupils. work. The partners’ forums are Damon Buffini, at the event at Tour of the Universe I last wrote about SpringBoard, triennial; these geographically the Teach First offices here in academically able children The headline news is that from • The unique and comprehensive Ian Davenport Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell physicists, talking about Pluto September 2015, over 130 pupils we have had the results of the disparate groups are building London. He took this opportunity network of support that the Burnell, gave the first Foundation and describing how and why from disadvantaged and 40 state and independent objective and independent impact relationships and expertise between to encourage them to make a SpringBoard model aims to provide Lecture of the year at Stamford it was reclassified as a Dwarf boarding schools will be part of the assessment undertaken on our them. This is a very exciting difference, to their families, their circumstances do not appears central to its success. High School, Lincolnshire. She Planet. Having become interested SpringBoard network; this is ahead behalf by the highly respected development. We have a growing friends and their communities. spoke about the creation of the in astronomy as a teenager benefit from boarding of our expectations. It has been a National Foundation for Educational These findings should be celebrated number of Virtual School heads The NFER impact assessment adds universe, and how the chemicals school. Their conclusions very stimulating period indeed for Research (NFER). This piece of by the schools, and indeed the championing our model, because powerful evidence to support our herself, she is especially keen to me as CEO. I have travelled the research is a longitudinal project sector. They also counter the they see the benefits for looked- views that the SpringBoard model we rely on to survive, came into inspire young women to follow in were drawn from the length and breadth of the country and as momentum develops, it will hypothesis, advanced by researchers after children. has a wider reach. being. her footsteps. She worked on the at the University of Warwick, that study of one new French and met innumerable impressive become even more relevant and Whilst the central principle is the In conclusion, I am pleased to Professor Bell Burnell is Visiting Nobel Prize winning discovery of less academically able children and enthusiastic children for whom persuasive. Their first interim report provision of life transforming report that a considerable amount Professor of Astrophysics at the pulsars as a postgraduate student state boarding school. It from disadvantaged circumstances life, through no fault of their is a powerful affirmation of the educational experiences, there is a has been achieved, this being University of Oxford, Fellow of in Cambridge and last year would be quite wrong to do not benefit from a boarding own, has thrown high and often work the schools are undertaking. wider agenda for us; many recent due to the enthusiasm shown Mansfield College and has served was the first woman appointed insurmountable barriers before The main elements of their environment. Although, to be fair reports tell us that social mobility is translate their study to by the boarding community as President of both the Royal President of the Royal Society of them. Our first cohort of pupils is conclusion are: to the researchers, their conclusions getting worse, not better. We are, and the partner organisations. the UK boarding school were drawn from the study of one Astronomical Society and the Edinburgh. now preparing for the next stage of • The early findings from the impact as a society, becoming complacent Boarding numbers have dropped new French state boarding school Institute of Physics. Pictured: Stephen Roberts (Principal of environment for many their educational career; they have assessment are overwhelmingly about the need to offer educational significantly over the past 25 of academic excellence, founded Stamford Endowed Schools), Ella Ball more than made their mark at their positive; pupils and staff have chances to those for whom years; some ask what the relevance A keen advocate of raising the (Physics Prefect), Dyl Powell (Head of reasons, according to Ian in 2009, in part as a response to boarding schools. The schools, for reported remarkably few negative circumstances are complex. The of boarding in today’s world is? profile of women in science, Stamford High School), Professor Dame the riots in Paris of 2005. The Jocelyn Bell Burnell, Geoff Harman Davenport, former head of their part, have been quite brilliant consequences of pupils moving to Social Mobility and Child Poverty It is obvious that the boarding she spent the afternoon in school is only populated by children (Head of Science) and Dan Sproul Blundells School, Devon, in providing this launch pad. boarding schools. Commission Report in 2014 stated: community can feel proud that the Ancaster Studio with SHS (Foundation Representative) A key element for us is the who come from disadvantaged “Education is a key driver of social the excellence of their education and now CEO of the • There are effective working programme of training; this year we circumstances. It would be mobility and reducing educational is being made available to those relationships between the partner Springboard Foundation will draw together representatives quite wrong to translate their inequality is central to this goal.” for whom life has not been easy, organisations, original and member from 60 organisations at Christ’s study to the UK boarding school Our model encourages our but more than this, they can also which exists to provide schools, pupils and families/carers. Hospital to share experiences environment for many reasons. bursary pupils to return to their demonstrate, through the recent bursaries at boarding and wisdom about boarding • Providing disadvantaged pupils We believe strongly that the success communities, which they do with NFER research, that they are schools for youngsters opportunities for pupils from with a place at a boarding school of the SpringBoard pupils is due enthusiasm and imagination, and influencing social mobility through disadvantaged backgrounds. Why is leading to the impacts intended to the effective pre-admission act as ambassadors for aspiration, the “ripple” effect. This, in part, from disadvantaged have we made so much progress? for pupils and member schools. work carried out by us, the partner providing the catalyst and but a significant part, is why Stay up to date with backgrounds... Simply put, because the boarding • For pupils, these include (amongst organisations and the pupils encouragement for those around boarding is relevant today. the latest news and developments happening French research shows a mixed picture in the Independent Sending disadvantaged children The effects of a boarding school the Paris School of Economics, he “After the first year, the test scores much lower levels of classroom than that of lottery losers. After to boarding school does not for disadvantaged students, by the followed 395 children from low- were very similar for both groups, disruption. Students also praised two years, there were no differences School Sector. automatically lead to an University of Warwick’s Department performing French schools, who however after two years the boarders the engagement of their teachers. anymore. The initial negative improvement in their academic of Economics. all applied for places at one of the outperformed the lottery losers who But Dr de Chaisemartin and his shock was larger for weaker pupils, Order your personal while the recovery was faster for performance, an economist from the A number of programmes have country’s internats d’excellence, or had stayed in regular schools on the team identified concerns about the stronger ones. Our theory is copy of the Independent University of Warwick has suggested. recently been implemented in the ‘boarding schools of excellence’, in maths test, with a sizeable difference the wellbeing of students at the that the stronger pupils, once Dr Clement de Chaisemartin’s US, in France, and in the UK to Paris – which teaches students from in performance,” explained Dr de boarding school. He added: “It’s they’ve adjusted to their new Schools Magazine. investigation found that while poor families for free. Chaisemartin. “But we found this clearly a huge upheaval for children provide places at boarding schools environment, tend to excel in stronger students benefit from positive effect was mostly seen in to move away from their friends Only £20.00 per Annum. for disadvantaged children. “Policy As there were more applicants than the boarding school. Adjusting is excellent study conditions, the students who were already doing and family to a place where they makers seem to believe that seats, a lottery was conducted to harder for weaker students, and Post your cheque made payable to Bull Nelson Ltd. to: effects of being away from home well in maths before they started face higher academic demands. sending disadvantaged students determine which applicants got that might be the reason why they prevent weaker children from That’s probably why the test results The Independent Schools Magazine (Subscriptions) away from home environments admitted to the boarding school. boarding. The students who were do not make academic progress. thriving. often not conducive to scholastic There were 258 successful applicants weaker to begin with did not seem after the first year don’t seem to “Overall, boarding seems to be a P.O.Box 4136 The disruption of boarding has a progress will necessarily increase or lottery ‘winners’ while the other to benefit from being there – even show much of a difference when disruptive form of schooling and Upper Basildon, Nr Reading negative impact on these pupils, who their academic performance. Our 137 lottery ‘losers’ continued at after two years there were no test compared to children at regular it doesn’t automatically lead to Berkshire RG8 6BS reported lower levels of wellbeing to investigation shows it’s not quite as regular schools, acting as a control score gains among them.” schools – because they need this better academic performance. Once (Include your name/title and full address) researchers – a likely explanation for straightforward as that,” said Dr de group for the study. At the end of The study found that boarders time to adapt. they’ve adjusted, stronger students their lack of academic progress. Chaisemartin. each academic year the different experienced substantially better “One year after they had entered make substantial progress, but for The relevant title for Independent Schools in the UK. His results have been published in a Together with fellow scholars Luc groups were given cognitive and study conditions, benefited from the boarding school, the general weaker students boarding school working paper, Ready for boarding? Behaghel and Marc Gurgand, from non-cognitive tests. smaller classes and reported well-being of boarders was lower might not be a suitable approach. www.independentschoolsmagazine.co.uk

26 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 27 Attention! How A number of independent school military about instilling in students New books on sale heads and senior staff have served traditional personal attributes of self- Teacher makes it two experience in the in the military. What does such discipline, loyalty, organisation and experience add to the way they teamwork? services influences manage schools and staff, and what Reflections from three ex-military school leadership lessons if any can be learnt from the personnel now serving in the sector... Mark Mortimer, Head, a quotation from von Moltke the also vital; such unity – camaraderie to the work of everyone and then Richard Brown, Head, Dorset GCSE; directed the school play; Warminster School, Wiltshire: Elder, the 19th century Prussian - is also a very powerful motivator develop leaders at all levels who are House School, Sussex: coached hockey, cricket and rugby; field marshal, ‘No plan survives of individual performance. Mutual trusted to make decisions and have ran the army section of the CCF; I count myself ‘Why don’t you contact with the enemy’. In other trust and loyalty (both up and down) the confidence to do so because very lucky to become a teacher,’ did the odd boarding duty; set up a words, things rarely play out as are other key components. These they understand the context and film club and even led an expedition have attended my father in law English teacher Mr Sam Lenton from online retailer. From a scriptwriting intended; what matters is how one values are constantly reinforced how their course of action might to Venezuela. It was hard work but the Royal proffered, ‘you St Swithun’s School, Hampshire, has background at university Mr reacts, exercises initiative, adapts and authentically exemplified and support the vision. Empower staff so rewarding! However, I never felt Military Academy could then use the just published his second book. Lenton has also written scripts and improvises while under pressure. emphasised. and encourage the use of initiative Sandhurst after long holidays for that my first Head of English really This is a great lesson for leadership The fictional thriller called A Right which have been performed both in leaving university. I then spent I believe that this template is as and calculated risk-taking. Give trusted me with his A level class as and also entirely suited to the fluid, your expeditions and travel writing to Know, deals with a widower’s Cambridge and in his local area of eight years as an officer in the Light appropriate for a school as in any people tasks that clarify the aim and was made abundantly clear when we let-go world of the 21st century – whilst carving out a second career?’ determination to uncover the truth Southampton. Infantry regiment. This was the other organisation. It is about why, but not what to do and how. team-taught Chaucer’s ‘A Knight’s which is not a place for tidy minds, It was very good advice especially as about his wife’s supposed accidental Sixth-form pupil Harriet Rose, army of the 1990s and my service human behaviour, getting the best Most of these lessons are as Tale’ and he only wanted me to as Sir Martin Sorrell recently said. I had decided, after six years in the death and is loosely based on the who has recently read A Right to included two operational tours of out of people as individuals, but also applicable to pupils as to staff. The Royal Dragoon Guards, that it was discuss Medieval warfare – what recent phone hacking scandal. Know said ‘‘The novel excels as an Selfless commitment, integrity, self- South Armagh, as well as six months as a team, developing a sense of the world beyond school is increasingly time to do something different with about the language? Mr Lenton began writing the novel energetic mix of wit, tension and discipline, loyalty, moral courage, in Bosnia in 1995-96. duty of service, but also resilience, ad-hoc and changing rapidly in my life. I also felt that my father in I then moved to Pangbourne College in 2012, shortly after the release of expert characterisation as the lines respect for others. These are six of I should make it clear that I determination, compassion and all sorts of ways. There are lots of law, an ex-Colonel in the Marines, in Berkshire as a Housemaster but his first book Accidental Crime. He between truth and paranoia, and the British Army’s stated values. believe that the army could learn empathy. problems in it; the need for leaders was worried that I was about to I was still involved in teaching has self-published both books which integrity and corruption, become It is not the only organisation to much from schools and other and citizens of good character, marry his daughter and be penniless are available through Amazon, the increasingly blurred.’ espouse such values – plenty of A common misconception is that English, coaching games and taking organisations. However, in terms strong values and the ability to think Photo: Mr Sam Lenton with Harriet Rose and other St Swithun’s sixth form pupils schools do likewise – but they are the army works solely on blind at the same time! expeditions. The skills that I learnt at on their feet and with flexibility has of how my military experience has essential to the army’s effectiveness. obedience, firm discipline and I completed my PGCE in English Sandhurst and in the army were key never been more pressing. influenced me as a person and now An infantry unit is pretty close-knit. a rigid, hierarchical command (Secondary) at the Roehampton in making my new role a success. College history as a headmaster... It is a community of practice in structure. In fact, the army believes Finally, on a personal note, I am also Institute. My initial placement The importance of being a good role What I think the army develops which everyone is encouraged to strongly in distributed leadership and grateful for the sense of perspective was the Ursuline High School in model, leading by example, running in its officers is a toolbox of skills share beliefs and values, to work in identifying and developing leaders my army career has given me. As Wimbledon, an all girls’ school a tight ship and also being fair and an approach that helps tackle together and in the interests of and then, crucially, trusting them to a headmaster, I will never have the which my course directors had especially when running a boarding difficulties in almost any situation. others. A clear vision, or collective do their job. Again, this works well responsibility I had as a 24 year carefully selected as my own house of fifty 13-18 year old boys. Written in the front of every army purpose, in which every soldier in a school: establish and hone a old platoon commander in South educational background had been I spent eight years at Pangbourne officer’s Tactical Aide Memoire is knows his role and responsibility, is convincing vision that gives meaning Armagh. very male – all boys prep school, and I loved the camaraderie of the senior school and then the army. common room as well as, hopefully, Matthew Jamieson, Assistant for me to have the patience to learn would never say this is unthinking, things that all good leaders will try I think that they rather enjoyed making a difference to the pupils Head (Boarding) Brighton this thoroughly. Within the pastoral I do believe it starkly contrasts to do and the Army taught me this seeing me initially flounder amongst that I both taught and looked after with the challenges presented by a in spades. I am only too aware that College, Sussex: sphere of management there are teenage girls who could see an as Housemaster. often many factors to be weighed recalcitrant 15 year-old. They do I fall short of the mark regularly, but As someone who inexperienced trainee teacher a mile It was in 2008 that I was appointed up and the outcome of my decisions not have a common background the Sandhurst principle of ‘Serve to has served in the off whilst trying to teach them the will rarely need to be reached within to us and the task of winning Lead’ still drives me forward. as Headmaster of a prep school in Scots Guards prejudice of 1930’s America in ‘Of Malvern College has launched of the former Headmaster Donald a tight time-frame. Consultation them over is completely different West Sussex called Dorset House. before becoming The best part of being in the Army Mice and Men’. I soon learnt that its 150th Anniversary Portrait – Lindsay (1953 – 71). Ian Lindsay and collegiality is a strength of the in the skills it tests. This is the The key to running a prep school a teacher, I am is the best part of being in teaching; some of my skills acquired in the a history of its 150 years. Roy has had a long and distinguished profession and I have benefitted same for fellow staff. As a manager is that you must know how to certain that it spending time with other people and army became very useful particularly career in the theatre performing from working within an exceptional of individuals with many line- get the best out of people whilst Allen, the author, was Head has been a ‘double-edged sword’ getting to know them and trying being fair and consistent, at the RSC, the Barbican and the Senior Management Team where managers, I may have an influence establishing a sense of common of History at the school and as we would say in the Army. That to help them. Bonds are built and residual experience has enhanced in only one area of their multi- communicating clearly and being purpose or vision, learn quickly at the heart of College life for Bristol Old Vic, and on television is to say, the benefits are often trust is created and the fact that many of the moves I have made at faceted roles. I need to encourage organised. and also have the ability not to be three decades, and has included in productions such as: Brendon close to the drawbacks. My military and motivate them to perform at everything we do can be boiled Brighton College. My first teaching job was at the bogged down in the minutiae – the in the book, anecdotes and Cryer in ‘Doctors’, Uncle Bert in training taught me that clear and their best for me when financial down to seeking to help that person Edinburgh Academy and I will skyscraper analogy springs to mind, reminiscences that bring the ‘Coronation Street’, Bernard Gadd swift decision-making is crucial It is interesting to hear about the incentives (or physical disincentives) is a worthy reason to get up each always be thankful to John Light, rooted in the community but able school’s history to life. in ‘Peak Practice’, Mr Collis in to succeed in rapidly-evolving idea that ex-military personnel are are not available to assist in the task. morning. In the infantry, pastoral to see beyond. I know that my ‘Hornblower’ and George in ‘Men situations. Indeed, when under fire, well-equipped to instil traditional The military comes into its own care is the core business and running The Rector, who saw that I could The book was launched in Behaving Badly’. to dither is the worst thing an officer values in the pupils in our care. I here. A soldier lives, sleeps, eats a boarding house or managing a offer a lot to his school and at a time in the army taught me how Malvern’s 150th anniversary year cheap price – much less pay than to deal with pressure and how to For further information and details of could do. Whilst the decisiveness would beg to differ. The training we and breathes his profession and a team of staff provides many similar with a Reception and a series of how to order the book please see the this has created in me is beneficial all receive on entering a profession good leader in education often has opportunities to use the experiences a Captain in the army! In the three multi task. This held me in good readings from the book given by Malvern College website: once decisions are made, quick we have all selected makes us to do the same. Setting an example gained in a battalion. The ex-Army years that I was in Scotland, I was stead with the demands of Headship www.malverncollege.org.uk/150thBook actor Ian Lindsay, who is closely email: [email protected] or decisions in schools are often not absorb and accept authority more for others to follow and giving cliché of a barking Sergeant could involved in everything: taught especially when trying to meet the linked with the College as the son telephone: 01684 581681 required. It has taken some time readily than in other jobs. While I something of yourself to a role are not be further from the truth. English to A Level, Higher, and expectations of the modern parent!

28 Independent Schools Magazine Independent Schools Magazine 29 Official re-opening of Hall Prince opens building Bromsgrove School’s Sixth Form Girl, Emily Collie, who won Family and friends of Box Hill They started with a tour of the Boarding House was officially the Housman Society Cup in School, Surrey, came together for classroom block, which houses the the grand opening of the Winthrop Maths and English Departments, re-opened, after 12-months of 2013, read the Housman Verse. Young Building. before continuing to the ICT suite refurbishment, in the presence After lunch, current pupils where there are 22 Windows 8 touch of Janice Boswell, Bromsgrove The new multi-million pound Sixth showed guests around the screen computers. District Councillor and Robin Form Centre and classroom block House including the newly built was opened by His Royal Highness The tour party then went on to the Shaw, Vice-Chairman of the bedroom wings and landscaped Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece, son Sixth Form Centre which includes Housman Society last weekend. grounds. of school patron, King Constantine. a large ‘Independent Learning The School welcomed back Named after Poet and former New £5 million school Designs for sports centre unveiled Amongst other distinguished guests Centre’, a fully stocked careers over 70 former pupils, current was Mrs Sophie Weidlich, who is office as well as a common room Bromsgrove School pupil A. E. The designs of a new £10m refurbished sports hall. The sports and former staff and friends of Mrs Abila Pointing MBE DL, the rooms and a dedicated library as the daughter of the late Jocelin of over 1,000 square foot, where the School to the re-opening Housman, who lived in the house High Sheriff of Merseyside, officially well as a fully equipped medical state-of-the-art sports centre hall will boast a fitness gym Winthrop-Young, founder of pupils are able to study and relax as lunch at Housman Hall. The during the 1860s, Housman Hall opened a multi-million pound room and other bespoke rooms for under construction at Latymer and three large multi-purpose the Round Square association of well as watch live streams from the Headmaster, Peter Clague is now home to over 100 Sixth redevelopment at Merchant Taylors’ specialist teaching of IT, art, music Upper School, West London, have studios. schools and after whom the new RSC and National Opera on a 90 Primary School. The two year, and drama. Reception pupils are welcomed guests to the newly Form boarders from the UK and been unveiled. The community was heavily building is named. inch HD screen! two-phase project incorporates a now fully settled into their purpose refurbished House and Head around the world A new six-lane swimming pool involved throughout the design new large hall and kitchens, several built early years’ classrooms and with a floating floor, to enable process and the new pool will Advertorial Feature classrooms, resource rooms, practice outdoor undercover play areas. training in faster conditions as be open to local primary school well as teaching and community children and swimming clubs use, is being built alongside the once complete. Rollalong - Top of the class in modular construction Pictured: Chairman of Governors Mr John Banfield, Mrs Sophie Weidlich, HRH Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece and Headmaster Mr Cory Lowde revealing the commemorative brass plaque to the reception party. Harrogate Grammar ‘lessens’ its environmental impact In replacing ageing boiler plant, Harrogate Grammar School has taken the opportunity to install a Hoval STU biomass boiler, backed by two UltraGas gas-fired condensing boilers. The new heating system was specified and installed by G&H Sustainability, which selected A simple solution to new school buildings Do you have a requirement showcasing their recent projects Hoval boilers because of their for a new school building or and demonstrating that modular proven quality and reliability. The Elements Europe provides degree of quality control, building Elements Europe’s design team generate tool paths that drive our additional classroom space? construction is far more versatile system comprises a 195kW STU innovative, bespoke turnkey efficiency, improved health and uses a combination of AutoCAD CNC machines to deliver extreme It can seem like you have an than people think. wood pellet biomass boiler, two building solutions to the education safety, material traceability and Revit and Tekla Structures to model precision in our manufacturing overwhelming task ahead. This Rollalong have an exemplary 350kW UltraGas condensing boilers is why the Rollalong Education sector. It combines traditional construction waste management. the architectural and structural process. track record of delivering and a silo for storing the locally team will be exhibiting at The sourced wood pellets. To facilitate design and build principals Promoting a highly sustainable elements of its buildings. This Elements Europe is a part of The new schools, extensions and Academies show next month. standalone classroom buildings installation Hoval supplied the STU with its industry leading off- form of construction. software creates and manages 3D Pickstock Group of companies, Their experts will be there to boiler in a ‘plug and play’ skid- site construction experience to structural models to guide the an organisation with revenues by using a combination of Elements Europe offers a full talk you through best practice offsite manufacturing techniques mount configuration. build schools nationally, from its team, enabling the creation and in excess of £200 million. turnkey solution. In house experts and the steps to follow to ensure and traditional in-situ Shropshire based manufacturing management of the whole process Its in depth knowledge of “The system is configured with carry out all project management, your next project is a success. construction. The benefits of this facilities. from conceptual designs to the construction is born from over the STU as the lead boiler, backed design, manufacturing, delivery, approach include minimal school Schools benefit hugely from off-site fabrication, erection, construction 30 years’ experience within the The list of Rollalong services up by the UltraGas boilers when disruption, as well as cost and construction methods. Disruption installation and on-site construction and future maintenance of group. Elements Europe delivers extend beyond design and required,” explained G & H programme certainty. during term time is kept to a activities. This in-house expertise buildings. innovative solutions to a plethora build; with many clients opting Sustainability’s Andrew Hudson. In implementing a biomass-led minimum by undertaking a large means a collaborated approach Tekla Structures/Computer Aided of sectors. Now Education is for assistance with planning Rollalong will be exhibiting at “We expect the biomass boiler to heating system, Harrogate Grammar proportion of the work within to all of its projects, ensuring Manufacturing (CAM) software high on the agenda, delivering applications, building regulations The Academies Show, ExCeL, meet around 80% of the space School is eligible for additional a factory environment. Off-site clients receive a first class service, uses 3D models and assemblies innovative and sustainable and contract administration. London on 29th April 2015. Visit heating and hot water requirements revenue through the government’s At the exhibition they will be them on Stand 366. construction delivers a higher exceeding their expectations. created in our CAD software to buildings. throughout the year,” he added. Renewable Heat Incentive. Tel: 01202 824541 www.rollalong.co.uk www.hoval.co.uk

30 School Buildings School Buildings 31 Advertorial Feature What Price for a Lifetime of Choice? Economic Affairs Pupils suffering serious, life- was “in charge” at the time of the It could be argued that changing injuries should not incident. In that scenario, a school independent schools are conference have to rely solely on liability (via its insurers and advisers) may best placed to offer that St Swithun’s School, Hampshire, insurance claims, which are so successfully argue that it was not comprehensive protection for hosted an Institute of Economic often beset by uncertainty and to blame and avoid liability – but their pupils via personal accident Affairs A level Economics Conference delay, to secure their financial is it a pyrrhic ”victory” when you insurance. After all, premiums earlier this month (March). future. They should have access consider the hardships that are for personal accident policies 22 of the school’s sixth-form to personal accident insurance likely to ensue for the injured are generally paid by parents via economists were joined for the day by to provide monetary assistance pupil? the school fee and amount to South Downs College and Sherfield School, Hampshire. to deal with the life-changing That is not to say that public no more than £10 per term for events that confront them. Jon a £2million maximum benefit. Grant Tucker, education outreach liability insurance is not officer of the IEA, chaired the Taylor, head of education, at Prudent parents wishing to buy important. It most certainly conference. The IEA is a UK free- Marsh explains. this type of cover as individuals is, and every school should be market think-tank, founded in 1955 A serious injury to a pupil while adequately protected against will simply be unable to match that promotes the intellectual case for at school is every school’s worst occasions when accidents do these group rate premiums. a free economy, low taxes, freedom nightmare. Sadly, however, occur and where some blame When you measure those few in education, health and welfare accidents leading to serious, might attach. pounds against the lifetime cost and lower levels of regulation in the context of the current economic life-changing injury do happen – of caring for a disabled child – However, we know from evidence challenges facing Britain and the despite every school’s best efforts and the immeasurable value of gathered over many years that wider global environment. to provide a safe environment for giving that child the chance to a great many disabling injuries Speakers at the conference included every pupil. overcome disability, to lead a life are sustained not as a result of Dr Steve Davies, Education Director No matter how extensive the negligence of a school or full of fulfilling choices – there at the IEA, Dr Lynne Kiesling, the risk assessment, nor how third party, but through sheer can surely be no argument. senior lecturer in the Department of comprehensive the health and bad luck. In other words, the For further information regarding Economics at Northwestern University, safety policy, accidents will pupil has been injured as a result personal accident insurance for Illinois and Ewan Stewart from Walbrook Economics, independent happen. Yes, there has to be a of a complete accident. These pupils, please visit uk.marsh.com/ consultants, London. focus on prevention, but what are the circumstances against education or join the Marsh UK Dr Davies spoke to the students about about making a provision for life which many pupils are simply not Education Forum on LinkedIn. globalisation and Britain’s future after an accident? protected at all. Spinal Cord Injuries: trading partners, giving a unique Ask yourself, if the lifetime cost Insure the Disability perspective of economic history in the of caring for a severely disabled context of today’s global economy. In Many independent schools are The Facts child is likely to exceed £1 addition, Dr Davies concluded the day operating personal accident • The frequency of spinal million, should a school put in with a short talk on the importance insurance schemes to ensure cord injuries is highest in and role of the economist in providing place an insurance scheme to that when accidents do happen younger males. research and analysis that has ensure these costs can be met pupils are protected. Personal contributed to the increase in overall and the child’s future secured? • Two thirds of spinal cord NOT ALL PERSONAL ACCIDENT living standards of world economies. accident schemes provide access injuries are caused by You may well argue that public to financial protection regardless sporting and road traffic Dr Lynne Kiesling, one of few female liability insurance cover is there of any blame or fault, as personal accidents. economists, spoke about the conflict COVER IS THE SAME to protect the school against accident insurers pay out on between the energy markets and • The most common sporting the wider ecological environment such an eventuality. To an medical evidence rather than accidents that result in including the role of property rights in extent you’d be right, but claims circumstantial evidence. Can your pupils’ personal accident insurance scheme extend to include a spinal cord injury are a free market economy. centred on liability are rarely diving, rugby, winter straightforward. In Loco Parentis Ewen Stewart spoke about the current the school’s teaching and support staff? sports, gymnastics and state of the UK, US and EU economies In the end, of course, schools horse riding. in the context of the credit crunch Is Public Liability have no legal obligation to insure and recent return to growth. To find out how we may improve your current personal accident insurance cover, please contact us pupils against accidents, just as • The lifetime cost of caring Cover Enough? for a severely disabled child is Conference organiser, Mrs Jacqueline today (quoting ISMAR15): Precisely where a school’s parents are not obliged to insure likely to exceed £1 million. Campbell, head of economics at St responsibility begins and ends their own children. Swithun’s said “The students were ( 01444 313174 * [email protected] 8 uk.marsh.com/education can be a grey area. Take a traffic However, should schools ignore the Spinal Injuries Association fully engaged for the four hours of Impact record and Financial accident that happens in or around fact that the majority of spinal cord lectures and left the day with many Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Copyright © 2015 Marsh Ltd. All rights reserved. Statement 2010/11. Spinal Injury the school entrance – it might be injuries and other serious paralysing important and relevant talking points Network – www.spinal-injury.net in the lead up to exams.” difficult to say with certainty who injuries occur to young people? Pictured: Dr Steve Davies, Mr Grant Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Tucker and Mr Ewan Stewart with St Copyright © 2015 Marsh Ltd All rights reserved Swithun’s sixth-form economists

32 School Finance & Insurance The new charities SORP 2015 New Design and Technology facility Dame Allan’s Schools in Allan’s Schools, said: “We Henry Briggs, senior partner of the Newcastle upon Tyne has been are thrilled that the Reece awarded a £250,000 grant to Foundation has awarded us Birmingham office of Haines Watts, help fund a £500,000 project. this grant. It means that young Chartered Accountants, and a former The funding comes from people in the region will benefit school governor, looks at how the the Reece Foundation which from fantastic facilities. promotes the improvement “We are committed to providing new Charities SORP (Statements of of education in engineering, the best teaching and resources Perfect score technology and related subjects. Recommended Practice) will affect possible for students and the money A team of four boys from King The donation will enable the will enable us to offer even better Edward’s School, Birmingham has Schools to develop a new state facilities to provide a first rate independent schools. jointly won the National Final of of the art Design and Technology education for our young people. Like many changes that are the requirements might soon be more detail for comparative funds, the Senior Team Maths Challenge teaching facility, creating new “Dr Reece who established the Reece announced well in advance, when obsolete. This all seems unnecessarily whilst required, can be assigned to with a perfect score. educational experiences and Foundation is still an inspirational they are finally implemented they complicated, but we can attribute the notes. There is variation in this Over 1,000 school teams took career opportunities for students. figure in the North East and we have a habit of suddenly catching the complications to our neighbours. detail required between the larger part in the national competition The new facility will help are honoured to have received the those affected by surprise. In and smaller charities. and 80 went through to the Although new SORPs were due to be National Finals, which were held students from across the region. support of his Foundation.” the case of the Charities SORP introduced every five years and the The main areas where the new at the Royal Horticultural Halls in A number of link primary schools (Statements of Recommended Anne Reece, the Foundation’s Work is due to start on the be one of the oldest independent last one was in 2005, a subsequent requirements make a difference, London last month (February). will also use the advanced Practice) 2015, schools that are Chair of Trustees commented: building in the coming months girls’ schools in the country. one was delayed to comply with the other than in the detail in the The team of Harrison Green and facilities which will be fully fitted either registered or exempt charities “The Foundation is very pleased with a view to opening the new The schools are pioneering in introduction of new International financial statements, are in the Clement Chan in Year 13 and out with the latest equipment will need to adhere to the new to be supporting this development facility in September 2015. their offering of the ‘diamond Financial Reporting Standards and it reporting of reserves and the Jeremy Ho and Vidy Reddy in including 3D printers and at Dame Allan’s and I hope we Dame Allan’s Schools are a model’ of education, meaning regulations. However, they could be trustees’ policy regarding them; Year 12 scored a perfect score was envisaged only one SORP would sophisticated software. This will can make rapid progress on forgiven for being caught unawares, of 176 points to jointly win group of independent schools students receive the academic be issued. related parties; conflicts of build on the Schools’ existing as not one but two new Charities the competition with two other establishing an engineering and in Newcastle upon Tyne. The benefits of single sex education, interest and setting executive pay. master class programme. But the EU issued an accounting teams, from Harrow School technology centre which will schools were founded in 1705 with the social advantages of SORPs were issued late last year Accounting policies for recognising directive for smaller entities and the and Hampton School, who also Dr J R Hind, Principal at Dame inspire many pupils.” with the girls’ school believed to co-education. and came into force for financial income, such as donations and Scots were unhappy that a single scored perfect scores. Pictured: (L-R) Rick Cronk (parent who helped secure the grant); vice-chair Brian Adcock; development director Jane Clubley; head Dr Hind statements for years commencing legacies, may need to change to SORP covered and complied with Tim Cross, Maths Teacher and on, or after 1st January 2015. comply, as will recognition of this aspect, so for now we have two. coach of the team, said: “To This means that schools with year forward expenditure and grant What’s more, new proposals could reach the National Finals of ends on 31st August are already commitments. For fee paying mean that those regulations will this competition is a fantastic in a year for which the figures will schools that offer an advance accomplishment. To go on soon be superseded. All of this needs Disability discrimination need to comply when shown as fees payment option, this will and win the competition by to be taken into account when comparatives in their 2016 accounts. be affected. Other areas that will answering every question deciding which SORP to adopt for a Before doing that, it is necessary to need consideration are Investment correctly is incredible and I am smaller charity that has the option. very proud indeed of these four – A weighty issue decide under which SORP they will properties, for which there is a ‘one Larger ones (and Academies) have boys.” be reporting. off’ opportunity to revalue; holiday no choice and must adopt the FRS John Claughton, Chief Master of The obesity epidemic is rarely out due to his size, he was unable be shown that the condition workplace. Just as the NHS pay, which now needs to be accrued; Larger Charities will be required to 102 SORP. King Edward’s School, said: of the news; with dire warnings to bend down, for example to adversely affected Mr Kaltoft’s has had to find money for multi employer pension scheme report under the full SORP, known “We have a great mathematical of the burden that it will place tie children’s shoelaces. The professional life. larger trollies and beds, schools If the choices and background deficits where forward recoupment as the FRS 102 SORP, but a ‘FRSSE’ tradition here and our most on the NHS and, in particular, school does not appear to have are confusing, at least the The impact of this decision may may find themselves having (Financial Reporting Standard has been set; and Heritage assets. famous mathematician is the dangers that it poses to a tackled this, rather obvious, actual changes brought about not be as far reaching as some to purchase larger desks and generation of school children for Smaller Entities) SORP allows For schools with Endowment Richard Borcherds, who won the capability issue. However, later in fear. Many severely overweight reinforced chairs for some are relatively straightforward by Fields Medal, the mathematical more used to computer games smaller charities to report under a Funds, the recent changes allowing his employment, Mr Kaltoft was people may suffer from teachers and pupils, or car comparison, though requiring some equivalent of the Nobel Prize. than the games field. second, less demanding standard. an option to adopt a total return made redundant. His claim was conditions connected to their parking closer to the entrance consideration. These boys are the heir to that If a school falls below two of three on investments approach can be There was much publicity that the redundancy was a sham weight that would, in and of tradition and Harrison and to the school for those with size criteria, then they can opt to Much of the new requirements incorporated into the accounts; but recently over a European Court and was used simply as a device themselves, already be protected Clement have recently received mobility problems. report under the smaller charities are explanations in the Trustees’ this is a whole area in itself and only case that tackled the issue of to get rid of him. He claimed under disability discrimination offers to study Maths at Oxford report - of reserves policy or its whether obesity can be viewed that the real reason for the legislation, for example diabetes, Most schools will have healthy FRSSE SORP, which is less onerous. relevant to those schools that have and Cambridge respectively.” absence; of any social investment as a disability, and, if so, the dismissal was that he did not fit lack of mobility or perhaps, for eating programmes for their The three criteria are: Gross income separate Endowment Funds. The Senior Team Maths policies; the financial effects of extent to which employers might with the image of the school and some, mental health issues. pupils and all pupils are required of less than £6.5m; Total assets of As is often the case with attempted Challenge is a national significant events; the principal have to make adjustments to that this constituted disability to undertake a certain amount less than £3.26m and less than 50 simplification, the area has become competition jointly organised by Given the nation’s expanding the workplace to accommodate discrimination; his disability of physical activity during employees. risks and uncertainties and plans for the United Kingdom Mathematics waistlines, however, this decision more complex, because although overweight staff. being his weight. Trust and the Further Maths has the potential to add the school week, with regular At the same time as issuing the managing them and arrangements the new changes that come Support Programme. Over 1,000 The case centred around He asked the Court to find another headache for employers sporting activities put on at the new SORPs, a major consultation and policies for setting the pay of into effect in 2015 are relatively school teams from across the UK a kindergarten teacher in that obesity was a disability. as they grapple with what weekend. Enlightened schools has been launched by the Financial key personnel. straightforward, they may be subject compete in a number of maths Denmark. Mr Kaltoft was severely The Court agreed with him might constitute a reasonable might also want to think about Reporting Council that would The layout of the Statement of to further change before long. It challenges against the clock at overweight, never dropping below finding that severe obesity could adjustment to accommodate expanding some of these incorporate the allowances for Financial Activities (‘SOFA’) has been is important, though, that Trustees regional rounds with the top 26 stone. It was reported that, constitute a disability, if it could the severely overweight in the initiatives to their staff also. smaller charities into just one SORP changed to include less headings and Bursars look at how they will 80 teams progressing to the Report by Donald MacKinnon, Director of Legal Services at Law At Work. 0141 271 5555 (as originally anticipated) – meaning and simpler terms; though some affect their schools now. National Finals.

34 School Finance & Insurance Independent Schools Magazine 35 New Send My Friend free resource pack, suitable for KS1 - 4 Intelligent lockers improve Bright Prospects for UK pupils step into shoes of student experience Metro Dome Litter Bins Traka asset management lockers are helping the University of Bath lend laptops and consoles to students at world leaders to help get 58 any time of the day and night. The university wanted to help its students gain access to laptops and games consoles as and when they million children into school required them. The Traka laptop lockers enable students to loan Leafield Environmental is Used with a plastic sack and the 2015 is an important year - world has one teacher for every 19 The campaign is asking young equipment 24 hours a day, without launching a new, economy, Dome internal sack retention device the Education Student Experience leaders will gather this September primary students. However, other people in the UK to create a 3D having a member of staff monitor Top Metro litter bin, that it claims bin has a capacity of 120 litres Survey last year thanks to the many in New York to decide how to countries are far off reaching the figure of them, as a world leader, the process. This is invaluable to is ideal for schools, colleges, and 100 litres when used with an initiatives they have put in place. tackle global poverty over the next target; Nigeria has over 10 million and tell politicians what needs to students who require access to commercial, businesses and leisure internal liner. 15 years. The Send My Friend to children out of school and an be done. Using the templates, in equipment at times when staff may The lockers charge the laptops so use. Combining contemporary The lift-off, dome shaped lid School campaign has launched a average of 100 pupils in every the free campaign pack, young not be working, allowing access at that students do not have to waste design with rugged practicality deters users from putting items on new free resource pack to help UK classroom. people are invited to build, and any time day or night. time trying to find a power source, and great value, the Dome Top the top. Double apertures provide pupils speak out for every child’s Sefiyat, 10, lives in the Kafuwa then cover their world leader figure The university has recognised the they increase accountability, but version will prove a useful addition easy ‘walk by’ access and the lid right to education and make sure Community, Nigeria, doesn’t go with a ‘If I were a world leader…’ need to increase the number of most importantly, they help the to the Metro bin range. is easily removed for emptying. world leaders commit to seeing to school, she says: “I feel lonely message. The 3D figures will be students, reduce withdrawal rates university protect its investment and The black bin body, with its Secure locking and stubber plate the last child out of school. The at home. If I get the chance I delivered to their MPs and they and aid student progression, by manage the use and misuse of the ‘tidyman’ logo and integral ballast, are optional. campaign asks young people would like to be a doctor and in turn will be asked to deliver important global issue providing an exciting and high equipment. If devices are broken, is manufactured from 100% to ‘step into the shoes of world touch people’s lives... I sometimes the world leader figures to No10 www.sendmyfriend.org quality environment for them. The damaged, lost or stolen, the Traka recycled polyethylene and the Despite its economy price point, leaders’ and tell their local MPs wonder if I don’t go to school to remind the UK government of The campaign is backed by University of Bath came first for system notifies staff through its bright eye catching lids come in this high durability, Dome Top how they would deliver a better what my future will be?” their promise of universal primary ActionAid UK, Action on student satisfaction in the National database, showing who has taken red, lime green, grey, blue and dark Metro bin will give many years of future for the world’s children. education. The new Send My Friend free Disability and Development, Students Survey in 2013 and 2014 what and whether it has been green to suit your preference. useful service. In 2000 world leaders promised resource pack, suitable for KS1 – Taahra Ghazi, Head of Campaigns Association of Teachers and and second in the Times Higher returned. universal primary education by 4, includes: for the Send My Friend to School Lecturers (ATL), CAFOD, Tel: 01225 816541 campaign said: 2015, but 58 million children are • A DVD of the 2015 campaign CAMFED, CBM, Christian www.traka.com www.leafieldrecycle.com still out of school and it’s girls, film, plus other films “Last year over 4,300 schools Aid, Consortium for Street children in conflict areas and got involved and spoke out Children, Comic Relief, Deaf • x4 A2 colour posters with stories children with disabilities that are for every child’s right to go to Child Worldwide, Handicap of children plus infographics missing out most. At the current school. Young people in the UK International UK, Link rate of progress it will be 2086 • a sheet of x35 stickers are very passionate about this Community Development, Meru Gigabit before every child worldwide gets • a Teachers’ Guide with issue and we are expecting MPs National Association of an education. instructions on how to run the to be inundated with thousands Schoolmasters Union of Women There has been some great campaign in school of these 3D figures! Many MPs Teachers (NASUWT), National Wi-Fi supports progress – millions of young In addition, there is a range of will also visit schools to hear from Union of Teachers (NUT), Oxfam people around the world have classroom activities, factsheets and pupils who are determined that GB, Plan UK, RESULTS UK, spoken out and 50 million more other learning resources available world leaders should keep their Save the Children UK, Sense promise to get all children into high densities of children have enrolled in primary at www.sendmyfriend.org to teach International, Sightsavers, Steve school. Some countries have done about global education issues primary school by 2015.” Sinnott Foundation, University really well; Rwanda now has 99% and to help pupils become active Sign up now for a free schools and College Union, Voluntary of children in school and Vietnam global citizens. pack to teach about this Service Overseas. mobile devices Meru Networks, a leader in and was unable to deliver connecting to the network was The network is also being used intelligent Wi-Fi networking, sufficient capacity to meet the also causing us headaches, with to support Firefly, the school’s Rugby stars at ‘world in union’ dinner has announced that Bradfield demands of more than 1,000 staff and pupils using up to three Virtual Learning Environment College has completed the first pupils, staff and contractors, devices each, often simultaneously. (VLE), which enables students Trent College, Nottinghamshire, kicked off Rugby World Cup year in style as phase of its deployment of which interrupted learning. That’s potentially thousands of and teachers to organise their international stars Phil de Glanville, Sophie Hemming and George Chuter joined Meru Education-grade 802.11ac devices all logging on at once.” homework and create and access renowned broadcaster John Inverdale for the ‘World In Union’ annual sporting “Our previous Wi-Fi network wireless technology throughout resources from anywhere. Phase dinner. caused some frustration with The school’s IT team worked the school’s extensive site in II will include external wireless Former England captain de Glanville, 2014 Women’s World Cup winner Hemmings, coverage dropping in and out alongside Meru to deploy more Berkshire. The network will Leicester Tigers legend and 2007 World Cup finalist Chuter provided fascinating depending on where you were in than 200 Meru AP832 802.11ac access covering the playing support up to 3,000 staff and anecdotes and insights from their successful yet varied careers as England prepares the school, and was particularly access points, with up to 10 in fields and the school’s recently to host the Rugby World Cup carnival in September. student devices. problematic in some of our some buildings, and two main renovated Greek Theatre, which The trio were also on hand to pass on tips and advice to Trent College’s own up and Bradfield selected Meru’s Gigabit older buildings, which date back controllers. Phase I of the project plays host to performances coming rugby stars, some of whom tasted Twickenham glory themselves in the U18 Wi-Fi when its existing network over 150 years and have solid has seen the Meru Wi-Fi installed during the summer term. In the Natwest Vase last March, in a post-dinner Q&A with BBC Sport’s Inverdale. failed to deliver seamless coverage walls,” explains Trevor Benstock, in all of the primary buildings future, the IT department will Trent College’s annual sporting dinner is always one of the most popular dates on across the school’s mix of Director of IT Services, Bradfield used for teaching and some of look at integrating the Wi-Fi Pictured: Some of Trent College’s Twickenham heroes meet the star guests, the school’s calendar with recent events welcoming stars from across the worlds traditional and modern facilities College. “The number of devices the boarding houses. with other systems such as CCTV. Back Row (L-R) George Chuter, Phil de Glanville, Will Allman. Front Row of sport including England and Nottinghamshire cricketer Stuart Broad, Olympic (L-R) James Benstead, John Inverdale, Sophie Hemming, Bill Penty (Head of Trent College), Jack Dickinson. Photo: Brian Pickering/Trent College swimming sensation Rebecca Adlington, London 2012 rowing heroine Katherine www.merunetworks.com Grainger and England and British Lions centre Manu Tuilagi.

36 Independent Schools Magazine Products and Services 37 Reclamation In Education Heads Hunted Green service providers for surplus Among the upcoming head furniture & timber waste streams. and principal appointments: Fees payed direct to Educational Cheam School Berkshire Eight Farlington School, Sussex, students from Years 11 and 12 have embarked on a 10-week The Establishment, Lower project waste fees, course to learn the basics of climbing and gain a Level 1 Climbing Certificate. They will use the less waste to landfill, UK wide collections. Ffynone House School Swansea bouldering wall, learn to tie knots, safely belay one another and climb a range of routes. Farlington’s John Dwyer said: “Indoor climbing offers both mental and physical exercise. The Digest Tel: 01271 830737 Email: [email protected] mind benefits from the problem-solving this sport demands, and increases mental control along www.r-i-e.co.uk Quinton House with improved climbing skills. As an exercise, it offers endurance and strength training, using both fast and slow twitch muscles. It engages and works all muscle groups simultaneously, while using School Northamptonshire and improving balance and coordination. St. Philip’s School London Schools featured in this issue include: Design - Construction - Maintenance - Refurbishment Abingdon School Grace Dieu Manor School Oundle School Sherrardswood School Hertfordshire Barnard Castle School Haberdashers’ Monmouth School Saint Martin’s School Experts in natural & Blundell’s School for Girls If you would like mention made of your Scarborough College non-turf sport surfaces Bolton School Kent College Sheffield High School Sports turf experts upcoming head or principal appointment for Box Hill School Kilgraston School Solihull School T: +44(0) 1604 864 575 Bradfield College King Alfred School E: [email protected] W: www.total-play.co.uk which applications are sought please let us St. Gabriel’s School Sports turf construction Brighton College King Edward’s School St. Helen’s School Bromsgrove School King’s School Natural & artificial surfaces know – there is no charge for a listing. St. Hilda’s School Drainage & irrigation Caterham School Lady Eleanor Holles School St. Mary’s School Renovation & maintenance City of London School Latymer Upper School St. Swithun’s School News items, contributions, comments and Cranleigh School Leicester High School for Girls Dame Allan’s Schools Lockers Park School Stamford High School Call 01722 716361 suggestions are always welcomed by the editor. www.mjabbott.co.uk Dauntsey’s School LVS Ascot Stoodley Knowle School Derby High School Malvern College Trent College Dorset House School Manchester High School for Girls Wakefield Girls’ High School Please email to: Downside School Merchant Taylors’ Primary School Warminster School

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